One of the persistent challenges in contemplating the perpetual struggle between good and evil is grappling with the concept of human depravity. Scripture reveals that our fallen nature endows us with the potential for immense wrongdoing. Theologically, this is often referred to as being “utterly depraved.” For those less versed in theology, a quick glance through history’s grim chapter on torture inventions and their widespread application suffices to illustrate humanity’s capacity for cruelty. Even today, despite many choosing not to engage in heinous acts, others unfortunately do. Observing the actions of abortionists, serial killers, rapists, and child sex traffickers prompts us to question how individuals can commit such atrocities and still be considered fully human. After witnessing the widespread reaction to Charlie Kirk’s assassination, one might think nothing could further shock the senses. Yet, Mississippi Congressman Bennie G. Thompson recently managed to do just that.

During a congressional hearing with Kristi Noem, the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, Thompson referred to the premeditated terrorist attack on National Guard troops in Washington, D.C.—an attack that claimed the life of U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom—as an “unfortunate accident.” When Noem corrected him, Thompson reiterated his stance, describing the deliberate assault and murder as an “unfortunate situation.” Although he later backtracked on CNN, telling Kate Bolduan he misspoke, he has yet to clarify his understanding of the incident. Was it homicide, terrorism, gun violence, or Jihad? His ambiguous response leaves us guessing, and considering the subsequent events and reactions from his party, one might wonder if Thompson views it as a calculated beginning.

To illustrate the absurdity of labeling such an event as an accident, consider a personal anecdote: last week, one of my daughters accidentally knocked over a vase, breaking it in the process. This was an unfortunate accident, a mishap resulting from a stray arm while cleaning. Similarly, a small dent in my truck’s door stands as a relic of an accident caused by a friend years ago. Accidents occur daily, but none involve a loaded gun aimed with lethal intent. When a sergeant under my command was airlifted back to base in Afghanistan in 2012, it was no accident. A subsequent complex attack on our base that resulted in deaths, injuries, and widespread destruction was far beyond an “unfortunate accident.” The soldiers who perished did not encounter mere misfortune; they faced the brutal realities of warfare.