An introduction to the effects of gun violence.

Only a month into the year, the Gun Violence Archive reports that 4,383 people died in early 2023 as a result of gun violence. With rising numbers of shootings, a rising number of victims experience trauma. According to Health Guide trauma in victims could show itself as grief, fear, unfocused thoughts, changes in appetite, and many others. 

At over 4,000 deaths due to gun violence so far this year, our country is on track to exceed last year’s statistic of death by gun. At the end of 2022, a total of 44,302 Americans fell victim to a gunshot. This averages out to the deaths of 3,691 civilians a month. 

America, as a country, accounts for the largest percentage of the world’s guns. And yet we have the least strict gun laws. American citizens are 25 times more likely to be killed in a gun homicide than other high income countries. 

Nearly every American will know at least one victim of gun violence in their life. And so, nearly every American will be affected by gun violence in some way or another. Gun violence does not only affect the victims, but also the people around them, family members, and friends. Firearm related violence is an issue that affects American’s nationwide.

Next week, writer Lehana Petelo will cover the psychological effects that gun violence has on victims, and the lifelong effects it can cause. If you have been affected by gun violence in any way and would like to share your story, please email Lehana Petelo.