From Allen, Texas, to Lewiston, Maine, 2023 saw a total of 40 mass killings involving guns, according to data from The AP, USA Today, and Northeastern University.
The number marks the highest level of mass shootings since data collection began in 2006, with tragedies at a Louisville bank and a Nashville elementary school fueling the staggering statistics. This represents an increase of four incidents from the previous year, reaching an unprecedented level of gun-related violence.
These findings come from what is considered the most reliable mass killing database in the United States. The data suggests an upward trend in mass shootings, following an especially bloody month that saw 18 fatal strikes alone.
It’s important to clarify that the data concerns only mass killings – incidents where at least four people died, not including the shooter. This distinction is crucial, as it differs from the broader definition of mass shootings, which includes incidents where victims don’t necessarily die but are still counted in the casualty count.
Furthermore, variations in how mass killings are recorded and defined have led to some discrepancies between different tracking organizations. Both The Gun Violence Archive and the AP/USA Today/Northeastern alliance have recorded a significant increase in gun-related violence in 2023, emphasizing the severity of the issue.
As the year came to a close, efforts to limit access to guns continue to face pushback from lawmakers, despite calls for stricter gun laws in the wake of the tragic milestone reached in 2023. The rise in mass shootings is a complex issue driven by various factors, but it’s clear that addressing access to firearms is fundamental in reducing gun-related violence.
In conclusion, the data from 2023 indicates a concerning trend of increasing mass shootings, posing a significant challenge for policymakers and law enforcement in addressing the root causes of gun violence.