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TOM CHITTUM: 4 ways experts say can reduce gun violence in 2024

By Tom Chittum

Updated January 2, 2024 10:35 AM

More than 170 crosses – individually marked with the names of a 2023 Kansas City homicide victim – dot the lawn outside of the Gathering Church on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023, in Independence, Missouri. A candlelight vigil and memorial service will be held at the church Thursday night to honor the year’s homicide victims. Nick Wagner nwagner@kcstar.com

Here are four ways communities can curb gun violence in 2024:

Prioritize school safety

Four in 10 Americans think schools in their communities aren’t safe from gun violence. Children across the country have their education impaired by the enduring fear of school shootings. Educators and community leaders should work closely on coordinated efforts to help students feel safe in the classroom.

Utilize public safety technology

Gunshot detection technology focuses on decreasing the time it takes for first responders to arrive at the scene of a crime. Gunshot detection systems like ShotSpotter also increase the efficiency of evidence collection and ease case-building efforts for law enforcement. Innovations that utilize thermal imaging, artificial intelligence, and real-time data sharing are just some of the new ways the public safety technology landscape can save more lives.

Educate on responsible gun ownership

Adults in communities who legally own a gun should take the initiative to be fully educated on safety precautions. If you’re a gun owner, ensuring you operate and store your gun safely is key to keeping not only yourself but your community safe.

Support community organizers

Gun Violence is an issue that runs much deeper than just the violence itself. Identifying individuals most at risk and providing them with the resources they need is crucial to stopping cycles of violence and saving lives. Programs like SoundThinking’s Data for Good initiative share data on where gunfire is occurring so community violence intervention groups and mental health professionals can provide services and support, social services, counseling, and economic assistance.

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Chittum is the former COO of the ATF, and current Senior Vice President of Forensic Services at SoundThinking.