WASHINGTON — A recent Federal Bureau of Investigation report in collaboration with researchers from Texas State University highlights a disturbing rise in active shooter incidents across the United States, with Texas experiencing a significant share of these traumatic events. The report defines an active shooter as an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area.
In 2023, the U.S. witnessed 48 active shooter incidents spread across 26 states, according to the FBI. Texas and California were noted as having the highest numbers, with Texas alone recording four major incidents. This unsettling statistic places Texas just behind California in terms of both incidents and casualties.
The human toll from these incidents is stark, with 244 people reported killed or injured. Among these, 25 victims were from Texas. One of the highlighted incidents was a mass shooting at an outlet mall in Allen, Texas, in May 2023, where eight individuals lost their lives and seven more were wounded.
Chris Grollneck, a former law enforcement officer and an expert on active shooter prevention, emphasizes that prevention is essential in combating this growing epidemic. Grollneck suggests a multifaceted approach involving technology and physical measures for detection and prevention, as well as behavioral threat assessments to proactively manage potential threats.
Despite a slight decrease in incidents from the previous year, the trend over the past five years is alarming, with an 89% increase in active shooter events since 2019. The majority of these shootings occur in open spaces or business establishments, indicating that these environments are particularly vulnerable.
Special Agent Steve Lupo, an active shooter coordinator not involved in the report’s creation, stresses the importance of preparedness and prevention. He advocates for a proactive stance in potential target locations and supports the ‘See Something, Say Something’ campaign, which has proven effective in averting potential attacks.
Meanwhile, Nicole Golden, the executive director of Texas Gun Sense, works tirelessly to influence legislation aimed at curtailing not only active shooter incidents but also other forms of gun violence. Her focus extends to reducing domestic, community, and interpersonal violence.
This report, while quantifying the grim reality of active shooter incidents, equally serves as a call to action for individuals, communities, and policymakers to strengthen preventive measures and enhance public safety protocols. As these incidents continue to impact communities nationwide, a more robust and multifaceted strategy may be the key to curbing the frequency and severity of these acts of violence.