These data were compiled based on reports of firearm discharges in hospitals over a 10-year period ending in December 2016. During this time, a total of 416 firearm discharges occurred, killing 279 people. A tendency for larger hospitals to have more frequent firearm discharges was observed.
Top 5 Motives for Firearm Discharge
- 30 percent (suicide)
- 15 percent (while violating another law)
- 10 percent (domestic – family dispute)
- 10 percent (related to care of patient who is a prisoner)
- 6 percent (accidental)
Elderly people (over 70 years old) are disproportionately likely to be in this offender group.
Source: Aumack, T., York, T., and Eyestone, K. (2017). Firearm discharges in hospitals: An examination of data from 2006-2016. Journal of Healthcare Protection Management, 33(1), 1-8. Click here for publisher’s website: http://www.iahss.org/?page=Journal Posted by AHA Resource Center (312) 422-2050 rc@aha.org
Filed under: Emergency department, Posted by Kim Garber |
American Hospital Association Resource Center Blog 