A newly released FBI report on active shooter incidents in the United States during 2023 has revealed what active shooter situations have in common.
The comprehensive data, aimed at informing law enforcement, first responders, and the public, shows that 48 such incidents occurred across 26 states last year, resulting in 105 deaths and 139 injuries.
The FBI defines an active shooter as “one or more individuals actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area.”
According to the report, open spaces such as roads, neighborhoods, parks, and outdoor venues were the most frequent targets, accounting for 28 of the 48 incidents.
Commercial settings, including retail stores and entertainment venues, were the second most common location with 14 incidents.
The remaining events took place in educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and residential areas.
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California, despite having some of the nation’s strictest gun laws, led the country with eight incidents.
Texas and Washington state followed, each recording four events.
FBI Releases 2023 Active Shooter Incidents in the United States Report. Learn more: https://t.co/Hbqdir5tHA
— FBI (@FBI) June 24, 2024
The deadliest shooting of 2023 occurred in Lewiston, Maine, on October 25, when a gunman killed 18 people at a bowling alley and bar before taking his own life two days later.
The report also provided insights into the demographics of the shooters.
All but one of the 49 perpetrators were male, with ages ranging from 17 to 72.
One shooter identified as both female and transgender.
Handguns were the most commonly used weapons, employed in 43 incidents, while rifles were used in 16 cases and a shotgun in one.
Today, the #FBI released the "Active Shooter Incidents in the United States 2023"report. The Bureau has designated 48 shootings in 2023 as active shooter incidents. Read the report: https://t.co/KYvIAPgyhW
— FBI (@FBI) June 24, 2024
Perhaps most concerning is the long-term trend identified in the report.
The FBI noted a 60% increase in active shooter incidents since 2019 and an 89% rise compared to the 2014-2018 period.
While there was a slight decrease from 50 incidents in 2022 to 48 in 2023, the overall upward trend remains alarming.
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This significant increase over the past decade raises critical questions about the underlying factors contributing to the rise in active shooter events and the effectiveness of current prevention strategies.
