‘Tell someone:’ FBI unveils 10 behavioral signs to look out for to prevent mass violence
The FBI in Cleveland and the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit want to share potentially life-saving information in a campaign called Prevent Mass Violence.
FBI profilers from the BAU study the increasing number of deadly U.S. attacks like the mass elementary school shooting in Uvalde, Texas in 2022.
How to spot signs, prevent mass violence with someone you know
They’re encouraging bystanders to “be the key to preventing violence by talking to someone you trust” if you notice something alarming that could lead to violence.
Bystanders are key in early identification of violence, according to the FBI’s campaign.
The earlier potential violence can be reported, there are more options available for authorities to avoid future violence.
To help, FBI investigators like Cleveland Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen. are asking people to pay attention to the following warning signs in someone’s behavior.
“We are focused on helping the public recognize threatening signs and report concerning behaviors. As bystanders, we might think we are overreacting when we observe something out of place or hesitant to say something for fear of appearing impulsive. The reality is that it is vitally important to report suspicious behavior, whether to the FBI or to local law enforcement,” said Nelsen.
The FBI shared 10 behavioral warning signs investigators noticed among perpetrators leading up to mass shootings and other acts of violence.
They’re “noticeable, observable behaviors,” according to Brad Hentschel, a supervisory Special Agent in BAU. “Mass shooters don’t just snap. Recognizing and reporting the warning signs of someone thinking about and preparing for violence can be lifesaving.”
10 warning signs to look for to help prevent mass violence
- Comments, jokes, or threats about violent plans
- Repeated or detailed fantasies about violence
- Comments about hurting themselves or others
- Creating a document, video, suicide note, or other item to explain or claim credit for future violence
- Seeing violence as a way to solve their problems
- Unusual difficulty coping with stress
- Increasing isolation from family, friends, or others
- Angry outbursts or physical aggression
- Obsessive interest in prior attackers or attacks
- Changing vocabulary, style of speech or how they act in a way that reflects a hardened point of view or new sense of purpose associated with violent extremist causes
What to do next
If you notice these concerning signs, the FBI’s main message is to tell someone you trust or respect.
“Following a tragedy or crisis, we often hear ‘something needs to change.’ Helping the public recognize the behaviors and adopt the prevention tips are the first steps to that change,” said Nelsen.
Contact your local police station or FBI office to report your concerns at 1-800-CALL-FBI