Homicide patterns in the United States: National violent death reporting system, 2018 - 2023.

PURPOSE: In the United States, homicides continue to be a public health problem. Overall, U.S. homicide rates have fluctuated in recent years, but little research has examined patterns and variation across homicide types. This analysis describes characteristics of single-, multiple- (2-3 victims), and mass homicides (≥4 victims) in order to help inform prevention strategies.

METHODS

Data from the National Violent Death Reporting System from 2018 to 2023 were analyzed to describe single and multi-victim homicides, to examine patterns across homicide types. The system uses information from death certificates, coroner/medical examiner reports, and law enforcement reports to provide a complete picture of violent deaths.

RESULTS

Single- and multi-victim homicides disproportionately affected young non-Hispanic (NH) Black males, particularly those aged 18-34. The highest proportion of mass homicide victims were NH White. Intimate partner and family relationship problems often precipitate mass homicides. Arguments and other precipitating crimes are commonly associated with all three types of homicide. Mass homicide victims were often killed by family members or strangers.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings can help inform the development of strategies to prevent homicide. Implementing violence prevention strategies, including addressing risk factors, can help prevent or mitigate the effects of single-, multi-, and mass homicides.