RI families of gun victims to see Obama speech

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) -- Rep. Jim Langevin of Rhode Island's 2nd Congressional District has spearheaded an effort to invite people affected by gun violence to attend President Barack Obama's State of the Union speech.

Langevin is bringing along Jim Tyrell, of Warwick, whose older sister, Debbie, was shot and killed nine years ago during a robbery.

Langevin says 24 House members are bringing people affected by gun violence to Tuesday evening's speech.

Among them are Rep. David Cicilline of Rhode Island's 1st Congressional district. His guest is Cleora Francis-O'Connor, whose son was killed in a drive-by shooting in 1997.

Langevin says to have people affected by gun violence in the gallery during the speech is a strong reminder to Congress that the American people want action on issues of gun violence.