RALEIGH, N.C. – The number of mass shootings in North Carolina has seen a significant increase, according to data from the Gun Violence Archive. In the year 2023, there were 33 mass shootings reported in North Carolina, marking a 57% increase from the previous year. The Gun Violence Archive defines a mass shooting as an incident where at least four people are injured.
Central North Carolina accounted for ten of those mass shootings. One particularly devastating incident occurred at a party in Goldsboro, resulting in the tragic death of a 15-year-old girl and leaving five others injured. Community leaders have expressed concern over the rising gun violence incidents, with some noting that such violence was previously uncharacteristic of their community.
In response to the increase in mass shootings, various leaders and activists have called for change, emphasizing the need for honest conversations and real solutions regarding gun violence. Efforts are being made to create more programs for teens in the area, with hopes that collaborative community action will lead to a positive change.
Last year, other mass shootings in North Carolina included incidents at a Subway in Durham where five people were injured on New Year’s Day, a birthday party at Wilson County Fairgrounds where four were injured, and a shooting in a Sampson County home resulting in five deaths. Leaders and activists have expressed concerns about the growing trend of gun violence incidents, and appeals are being made for stricter gun laws and background checks to prevent future shootings.
Overall, the data shows that in 2023, there were 33 people killed and 118 injured in the state’s mass shootings, compared to 17 killed and 86 injured in 2022. The rising numbers highlight the urgent need for effective measures to address and mitigate the ongoing trend of mass shootings in North Carolina.