As of August 11, there were four mass shootings in the United States in 2025. This is compared to one mass shooting in 1982, one in 2000, and 12 mass shootings in 2022 and 2023. School shootings The United States sees the most school shootings in the world. Some motivations for school shootings included depression, seeking revenge, and bullying. As a result of the large amount of school shootings, gun control has become a central topic in U.S. politics. This widespread problem happens across the United States; however California saw the highest number of K-12 school shootings in the United States since 1970. However, the deadliest school shooting (as of October 2023) was the Virginia Tech massacre in 2007. This tragedy left 33 dead and 23 injured. Mass shooting issues Mass shootings happen when there are several injuries or deaths from a firearm-related violence. Throughout the last century, mass shootings have become an epidemic in the United States. However, despite the increase in mass shootings and number of casualties, the U.S. government has done little to prevent future shootings from happening. As a result of the lack of cooperation in politics, mass shootings have become an important issue for Generation Z living in the United States. Furthermore, having the right to bear arms is a popular belief in the U.S. and the percentage of households in the United States owning at least one firearm has remained somewhat steady since 1972.

As of March 19, ***** school shootings were recorded in the United States in 2025, impacting K-12 school grounds and college campuses nationwide. In comparison, there were ** school shooting incidents recorded in 2024. In addition to schools, gun-related violence occurs in many public places within the United States, including workplaces, churches, restaurants, and nightclubs. The source defines school shootings as incidents of gun violence which occurred on school property and at least one person was shot, not including the shooter. School property includes, but is not limited to, buildings, fields, parking lots, stadiums and buses. Accidental discharges of firearms are included, as long as at least one person is shot, but not if the sole shooter is law enforcement or school security.

As of June 19, 116 school shooting incidents were recorded in K-12 schools in the United States in 2025. Within the provided time period, the greatest number of K-12 school shootings was recorded in 2023, at 350. The source defines a school shooting as every time a gun is brandished, fired, or a bullet hits school property for any reason, regardless of the number of victims (including zero), time, day or the week, or reason, including gang shootings, domestic violence, shootings at sports games and after hours school events, suicides, fights that escalate into shootings, and accidents.

THIS DATASET WAS LAST UPDATED AT 2:11 PM EASTERN ON SEPT. 3

OVERVIEW

2019 had the most mass killings since at least the 1970s, according to the Associated Press/USA TODAY/Northeastern University Mass Killings Database.

In all, there were 45 mass killings, defined as when four or more people are killed excluding the perpetrator. Of those, 33 were mass shootings . This summer was especially violent, with three high-profile public mass shootings occurring in the span of just four weeks, leaving 38 killed and 66 injured.

A total of 229 people died in mass killings in 2019.

The AP's analysis found that more than 50% of the incidents were family annihilations, which is similar to prior years. Although they are far less common, the 9 public mass shootings during the year were the most deadly type of mass murder, resulting in 73 people's deaths, not including the assailants.

One-third of the offenders died at the scene of the killing or soon after, half from suicides.

About this Dataset

The Associated Press/USA TODAY/Northeastern University Mass Killings database tracks all U.S. homicides since 2006 involving four or more people killed (not including the offender) over a short period of time (24 hours) regardless of weapon, location, victim-offender relationship or motive. The database includes information on these and other characteristics concerning the incidents, offenders, and victims.

The AP/USA TODAY/Northeastern database represents the most complete tracking of mass murders by the above definition currently available. Other efforts, such as the Gun Violence Archive or Everytown for Gun Safety may include events that do not meet our criteria, but a review of these sites and others indicates that this database contains every event that matches the definition, including some not tracked by other organizations.

This data will be updated periodically and can be used as an ongoing resource to help cover these events.

Using this Dataset

To get basic counts of incidents of mass killings and mass shootings by year nationwide, use these queries:

Mass killings by year

Mass shootings by year

To get these counts just for your state:

Filter killings by state

Definition of "mass murder"

Mass murder is defined as the intentional killing of four or more victims by any means within a 24-hour period, excluding the deaths of unborn children and the offender(s). The standard of four or more dead was initially set by the FBI.

This definition does not exclude cases based on method (e.g., shootings only), type or motivation (e.g., public only), victim-offender relationship (e.g., strangers only), or number of locations (e.g., one). The time frame of 24 hours was chosen to eliminate conflation with spree killers, who kill multiple victims in quick succession in different locations or incidents, and to satisfy the traditional requirement of occurring in a “single incident.”

Offenders who commit mass murder during a spree (before or after committing additional homicides) are included in the database, and all victims within seven days of the mass murder are included in the victim count. Negligent homicides related to driving under the influence or accidental fires are excluded due to the lack of offender intent. Only incidents occurring within the 50 states and Washington D.C. are considered.

Methodology

Project researchers first identified potential incidents using the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Supplementary Homicide Reports (SHR). Homicide incidents in the SHR were flagged as potential mass murder cases if four or more victims were reported on the same record, and the type of death was murder or non-negligent manslaughter.

Cases were subsequently verified utilizing media accounts, court documents, academic journal articles, books, and local law enforcement records obtained through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. Each data point was corroborated by multiple sources, which were compiled into a single document to assess the quality of information.

In case(s) of contradiction among sources, official law enforcement or court records were used, when available, followed by the most recent media or academic source.

Case information was subsequently compared with every other known mass murder database to ensure reliability and validity. Incidents listed in the SHR that could not be independently verified were excluded from the database.

Project researchers also conducted extensive searches for incidents not reported in the SHR during the time period, utilizing internet search engines, Lexis-Nexis, and Newspapers.com. Search terms include: [number] dead, [number] killed, [number] slain, [number] murdered, [number] homicide, mass murder, mass shooting, massacre, rampage, family killing, familicide, and arson murder. Offender, victim, and location names were also directly searched when available.

This project started at USA TODAY in 2012.

Contacts

Contact AP Data Editor Justin Myers with questions, suggestions or comments about this dataset at jmyers@ap.org. The Northeastern University researcher working with AP and USA TODAY is Professor James Alan Fox, who can be reached at j.fox@northeastern.edu or 617-416-4400.

From 1999 to January 2025, *** school shootings were recorded in the United States, *** of which occurred in public schools. Within the provided time period, only ** shootings were recorded in private schools.

As of June 2022, there were 153 school shootings in total in the United States in that year. Of these incidents, only two were active shooter incidents. The largest number of active shooter incidents in schools was in 2018, with 11 active shooters.

The source defines a shooting as any time a gun is brandished, fired, or a bullet hits school property for any reason.

As of August 2025, California had the most mass shootings in the United States, with 26 total shootings since 1982. The source defines a mass shooting as a shooting where three or more people were killed. Recently, a mass shooting occurred in the state of Maine on October 26, 2023, during which one of the highest number of fatalities from a mass shooting was recorded after Robert Card opened fire in a bowling alley and a bar, killing 18 and injuring 13 others. Firearms in the U.S. Mass shootings in the United States are disturbingly common. In comparison with other Western countries, there are significantly more shootings in the U.S., which some theorize is due to the relatively lax gun control laws. Gun control laws in the U.S. are dependent on the state, and the right to own a firearm is enshrined in the United States Constitution. Mass shootings The worst mass shooting in the U.S. was the Las Vegas Strip massacre in 2017, which resulted in 58 deaths and 546 injuries. 13 of the worst mass shootings in the United States have occurred since 2015 and the vast majority of these incidents in the U.S. have been carried out by shooters who are White and male.

Between 1970 and June 16, 2020, 175 school shootings were perpetrated by 17-year-olds. 16-year-olds perpetrated the second highest number of school shootings, with 163 shootings.

Between 1966 and June 19, 2025, 513 school shootings took place during morning classes. During this same time period, 342 school shootings took place during afternoon classes. The source defines a shooting as any time a gun is brandished, fired, or a bullet hits school property for any reason, regardless of the number of victims, time, or day of week, including gang shootings, domestic violence, shootings at sports games and after hours school events, suicides, fights that escalate into shootings, and accidents.

The global market for security doors in schools is anticipated to reach USD 2506 million by 2033, expanding at a 3% CAGR over the forecast period 2023-2033. Growing concerns regarding school safety, rising incidents of school shootings, and increasing government initiatives to enhance security measures are key factors propelling the market growth. Additionally, advancements in technology and the integration of smart features into security doors are further driving market demand. The market is segmented into primary schools, secondary schools, universities, and other educational institutions. The primary school segment holds a significant market share due to the higher number of students enrolled at this level. Swing doors and tandem gates are the most common types of security doors used in schools. Sliding doors are gaining popularity due to their space-saving design and ease of operation. Special-Lite, DoorTechnik, ArtUSA Industries, STANLEY ACCESS TECHNOLOGIES, and HOPE'S WINDOWS are among the leading companies offering a wide range of security doors specifically designed for educational institutions. The market is expected to witness significant growth in developing regions such as Asia Pacific and the Middle East & Africa, driven by government initiatives to improve school infrastructure and enhance student safety.

From 2000 to 2022, a total number of *** high schools had shootings in the United States. In comparison, *** elementary schools and *** middle or junior high schools had shootings within that time period.

Mass shootings in the United States

Schooling shootings have become a disturbingly common occurrence in the United States. The frequency of these instances relative to other developed countries highlights a potentially systemic problem. Mass shootings in general have become a persistent problem in the U.S., often occurring at nightclubs, bars, and grocery stores, in addition to educational institutions. As a result, the fear of getting shot at a school or a college has now spread even further, impacting Americans' daily lives and routines nationwide.

Gun culture in the U.S. The majority of mass shooters in the United States are White and male. The most common type of weapon used in mass shootings in the U.S. is a handgun and the evidence suggests that the majority of the weapons used in mass shootings are obtained legally, bringing the availability of firearms into the spotlight. However, due to the Second Amendment of the Constitution which provides citizens with the right to bear arms, it seems unlikely that any gun control legislation will be passed on a national level. While some U.S. states have enacted their own gun safety policies, it is unlikely that America's gun problem will be solved unless the nation is able to work together.

Shotgun Market Outlook

The global shotgun market size was valued at approximately USD 2.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around USD 3.7 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.3% during the forecast period. The growth of the shotgun market is primarily driven by the increased demand for hunting and sport shooting activities worldwide, coupled with the rising need for firearms by law enforcement agencies and military applications. As modernization and technological advancements continue to evolve, shotguns are playing a crucial role in defense and recreational sectors, leading to robust market growth.

The growing popularity of hunting and sport shooting as recreational activities significantly propels the demand for shotguns. Many countries hold historical traditions of hunting, which are bolstered by organized events and competitions that attract enthusiasts worldwide. This interest not only sustains the existing market but also encourages the development of innovative shotgun designs that cater to varying skill levels and preferences. Additionally, the increasing number of shooting ranges and facilities has made sport shooting more accessible, further driving market expansion. Manufacturers are responding to this trend by offering a diverse range of shotguns tailored to both novice and professional shooters.

Moreover, governmental support and favorable regulations in certain countries contribute positively to the shotgun market. In regions where hunting is a regulated and licensed activity, governments often implement incentives and structured programs to manage wildlife populations responsibly. These programs encourage the use of shotguns, thereby augmenting market revenue. Furthermore, the development of shooting sports as a part of school curriculums and local sports clubs also adds to the growing demand, fostering an environment where the use of shotguns is both safe and promoted under guided supervision, thus boosting the overall market growth.

On the flip side, global political instability and rising security concerns are leading to an increased demand for shotguns in the law enforcement and military sectors. Law enforcement agencies, in particular, are adapting to new threats by equipping themselves with advanced firearms, including shotguns, to enhance their operational capabilities. Shotguns are valued for their versatility, reliability, and effectiveness in close-quarters situations, making them essential for tactical operations. The military's continual investment in modernizing its arsenal further amplifies this demand, as shotguns are integral in combat scenarios demanding precision and power.

The use of a Spear Gun has gained attention in the realm of underwater hunting and fishing, offering enthusiasts a unique and challenging experience. Unlike traditional firearms, spear guns are specifically designed for aquatic environments, allowing users to engage in spearfishing with precision and skill. The market for spear guns has seen a steady increase as more individuals seek sustainable and eco-friendly methods of fishing. This growth is supported by a community of passionate divers and spearfishers who advocate for responsible practices and conservation efforts. As interest in marine sports and activities continues to rise, the spear gun market is poised for further expansion, driven by innovations in design and technology that enhance performance and user safety.

Regionally, North America holds a dominant position in the market, driven by high consumer demand and established hunting traditions, particularly in the United States and Canada. Europe also exhibits significant growth potential due to the popularity of shooting sports and stringent regulations that enforce safe practices. Additionally, the Asia Pacific region is emerging as a lucrative market due to the growing interest in hunting and shooting sports, particularly in countries like Australia and New Zealand. Each region presents unique opportunities and challenges, influenced by cultural, economic, and regulatory factors that shape the overall growth trajectory of the shotgun market.

Product Type Analysis

The shotgun market is segmented into various product types, including pump-action, semi-automatic, break-action, bolt-action, and others. Pump-action shotguns are among the most popular, recognized for their reliability, ease of use, and versatility across multiple applications. Their robust design and ability to handle a wide range of ammunition make them a favore

Since 1982, an astonishing 145 mass shootings have been carried out in the United States by male shooters. In contrast, only four mass shootings (defined by the source as a single attack in a public place in which four or more victims were killed) have been carried out by women. Gun ownership in the U.S. Possession of firearms in the United States is protected by the 2nd Amendment of the Constitution and has been a defining aspect of American civil liberties since the writing of the Bill of Rights. It is estimated that the United States has the highest rate of civilian-owned firearms in the world, and Americans continually poll against handgun restrictions. Mass shootings However, with high gun ownership comes high responsibility. The United States consistently faces numerous mass shootings each year, particularly in schools. The five deadliest mass shootings have all occurred since 2007, with the deadliest being the Las Vegas Strip massacre in 2017, which claimed the lives of 58 people and injured 546 more.

Bulletproof Backpacks Market Outlook

The global bulletproof backpacks market size was valued at approximately USD 210 million in 2023 and is projected to reach around USD 380 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by increasing concerns regarding personal safety amidst rising incidences of mass shootings and violent crimes worldwide.

One of the primary growth factors for the bulletproof backpacks market is the escalating incidence of school shootings and public attacks, particularly in regions like North America and Europe. The frequent occurrence of these unfortunate events has led to heightened awareness and demand for personal safety products, including bulletproof backpacks. Consequently, parents, schools, and even corporations are increasingly investing in these safety measures to protect students and employees.

Technological advancements in material science have significantly contributed to the market's growth. Innovations in materials like Kevlar and Dyneema have made bulletproof backpacks lighter, more durable, and more effective at stopping bullets. These advancements have not only improved the performance of these backpacks but have also made them more comfortable and convenient to use, thereby boosting their adoption across various end-user segments.

Additionally, the expanding consumer base, including civilians and law enforcement agencies, has propelled market growth. With the growing recognition of the importance of personal security, even civilians are now considering bulletproof backpacks as essential everyday carry items. This trend is further supported by the rising disposable income levels in emerging economies, enabling more people to invest in personal safety products.

In recent years, the concept of a Smart Backpack has gained traction, particularly among tech-savvy consumers seeking more than just protection. These backpacks integrate advanced technologies such as GPS tracking, solar charging panels, and Bluetooth connectivity, offering users a blend of security and convenience. As personal safety becomes a priority, the demand for smart backpacks that combine bulletproof features with technological enhancements is on the rise. This trend is particularly appealing to students and professionals who require both safety and functionality in their everyday carry items. The integration of smart features not only enhances user experience but also aligns with the growing trend of connected devices, making smart backpacks a compelling choice for the modern consumer.

From a regional perspective, North America holds the largest market share due to the high incidence of public shooting events and the subsequent demand for personal safety equipment. Europe also exhibits considerable demand, driven by similar safety concerns. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness significant growth, attributed to increasing crime rates and rising awareness about personal safety products.

Product Type Analysis

The bulletproof backpacks market is segmented into standard bulletproof backpacks, convertible bulletproof backpacks, and tactical bulletproof backpacks. Standard bulletproof backpacks are the most common type, primarily designed for everyday use by students and civilians. These backpacks offer essential bulletproof protection while maintaining a conventional appearance. The demand for standard bulletproof backpacks is driven by their affordability and widespread availability, making them the go-to choice for safety-conscious consumers.

Convertible bulletproof backpacks, on the other hand, provide versatility and multifunctionality. These backpacks can transform into protective vests or shields, offering additional layers of security. The flexibility of these products makes them popular among civilians and military personnel who require adaptable safety solutions. The growing interest in multifunctional safety gear is expected to drive the demand for convertible bulletproof backpacks in the coming years.

Tactical bulletproof backpacks are specifically designed for military and law enforcement applications. These backpacks not only provide bulletproof protection but also include various tactical features such as multiple compartments, MOLLE webbing, and hydration system compatibility. The demand for tactical bulletproof backpacks is fueled by the increasing need for advanced protective gear amon

In 2023, **** cases of incidents involving the discharge of firearms were reported in Japan. Although figures fluctuated from year to year, this continued a general downward trend after the decade-high number of ** gun shooting incidents reported in 2014. ***** people died from gun shooting incidents in 2023. Gun control Gun possession for general citizens in Japan is strictly regulated under the Act for Controlling the Possession of Firearms or Swords and Other Such Weapons enacted in 1958. According to the act, gun possession is only allowed for hunting and shooting sports purposes. The only firearms permitted for ownership are hunting rifles, shotguns, other hunting guns, and air guns. It is required to undergo numerous procedures to obtain a gun permit, such as providing a resume and a medical certificate from a psychiatrist, attending classroom lectures and technical training, and passing exams. Applicants must repeat similar procedures every three years to renew the permit. As of 2023, about ******* guns were owned with licenses among citizens across the country. The number of confiscated weapons in 2023 amounted to *** pistols, ***** hunting guns, and ** air guns. Killing of Shinzo Abe Ex-Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the longest-serving prime minister in Japanese history, was shot and killed in July 2022. The incident marked the first assassination of a former Japanese prime minister since 1936. The suspect used a homemade gun created with DIY store materials. Following the incident, experts suggest tightening the security system for politicians and regulations for handmade or modified guns.

Between 1982 and September 2024, 82 out of the 151 mass shootings in the United States were carried out by White shooters. By comparison, the perpetrator was African American in 26 mass shootings, and Latino in 12. When calculated as percentages, this amounts to 54 percent, 17 percent, and eight percent respectively. Race of mass shooters reflects the U.S. population Broadly speaking, the racial distribution of mass shootings mirrors the racial distribution of the U.S. population as a whole. While a superficial comparison of the statistics seems to suggest African American shooters are over-represented and Latino shooters underrepresented, the fact that the shooter’s race is unclear in around nine percent of cases, along with the different time frames over which these statistics are calculated, means no such conclusions should be drawn. Conversely, looking at the mass shootings in the United States by gender clearly demonstrates that the majority of mass shootings are carried out by men. Mass shootings and mental health With no clear patterns between the socio-economic or cultural background of mass shooters, increasing attention has been placed on mental health. Analysis of the factors Americans considered to be to blame for mass shootings showed 80 percent of people felt the inability of the mental health system to recognize those who pose a danger to others was a significant factor. This concern is not without merit – in over half of the mass shootings since 1982, the shooter showed prior signs of mental health issues, suggesting improved mental health services may help deal with this horrific problem. Mass shootings and guns In the wake of multiple mass shootings, critics have sought to look beyond the issues of shooter identification and their influences by focusing on their access to guns. The majority of mass shootings in the U.S. involve firearms which were obtained legally, reflecting the easy ability of Americans to purchase and carry deadly weapons in public. Gun control takes on a particular significance when the uniquely American phenomenon of school shootings is considered. The annual number of incidents involving firearms at K-12 schools in the U.S. was over 100 in each year since 2018. Conversely, similar incidents in other developed countries exceptionally rare, with only five school shootings in G7 countries other than the U.S. between 2009 and 2018.

The Global FPS Game Market Size Was Worth USD 28.99 Billion in 2023 and Is Expected To Reach USD 47.34 Billion by 2032, CAGR of 5.60%.

The total number of homicides by shooting in Canada was 289 in 2023. Between 1974 and 2023, the total number rose by six, though the increase followed an uneven trajectory rather than a consistent upward trend.

Over the last few years, gun violence in the United States has become an increasingly deadly public health crisis. In 2021, firearms were the leading cause of death for children and adolescents aged one to 19 years old for a second year in a row in the United States, with ***** deaths from firearms, which accounted for more deaths than car crashes and other diseases in that year. This is an increase from the previous year, when there were ***** deaths from firearms. Gun violence in the U.S. Along with a rise in gun-related deaths, the United States has been experiencing an overall increase in gun violence, including mass shootings, school shootings, and gun homicides. Not surprisingly, the United States has also reported in increase in gun sales, with the unit sales for firearms reaching a new high in recent years. A uniquely American problem Despite the rise of gun violence and gun-related deaths, guns remain easily accessible in the United States and gun control has become a divisive issue throughout the nation. However, gun control proponents often call attention to the uniquely American phenomenon of school shootings. Since 2018, the annual number of incidents involving firearms at K-12 schools in the U.S. reached over *** in each year, while similar incidents in other countries with strict gun laws are exceptionally rare.

In the United States, Black people have higher rates of gun homicide than White people across all age groups. As of 2022, gun homicide rates were highest among Black people aged between 15 and 24 years, at ***** gun homicides per 100,000 of the population. In comparison, there were only **** gun homicides per 100,000 of the White population within this age range. However, the risk for gun homicide was greatest among all adolescents and adults between the ages of 15 to 44 in that year. The impact of guns on young Americans In the last few years, firearms have become the leading cause of death for American children and teenagers aged one to 19 years old, accounting for more deaths than car crashes and diseases. School shootings also remain on the rise recently, with the U.S. recording ** times as many school shootings than other high-income nations from 2009 to 2018. Black students in particular experience a disproportionately high number of school shootings relative to their population, and K-12 teachers at schools made up mostly of students of color are more likely to report feeling afraid that they or their students would be a victim of attack or harm. The right to bear arms Despite increasingly high rates of gun-related violence, gun ownership remains a significant part of American culture, largely due to the fact that the right to bear arms is written into the U.S. Constitution. Although firearms are the most common murder weapon used in the U.S., accounting for approximately ****** homicides in 2022, almost **** of American households have at least one firearm in their possession. Consequently, it is evident that firearms remain easily accessible nationwide, even though gun laws may vary from state to state. However, the topic of gun control still causes political controversy, as the majority of Republicans agree that it is more important to protect the right of Americans to own guns, while Democrats are more inclined to believe that it is more important to limit gun ownership.