Rural New York Experiences Notable Rise in Firearm Incidents at Deer Hunting Season Start!
Gun violence significantly increases at the start of deer hunting season in rural New York and similar areas. Led by Patrick Sharkey from Princeton University, the research uncovers a 49% rise in firearm-related injuries and deaths during the first week of the hunting season compared to the week before.
This alarming increase persists even when hunting accidents are excluded from the data.
The Connection Between Gun Availability and Violence
Published on August 14 in JAMA Network Open, the study analyzed gun violence data from 854 rural counties across 44 states, including New York.
The findings highlight a clear link between the availability of loaded firearms and an uptick in violent incidents. Although hunting accidents are rare, the broader access to guns during this period appears to correlate strongly with increased gun violence.
The study tracked firearm-related incidents before and during the deer hunting season in each county. The data indicates a 49% surge in shootings during the season’s first week, with incidents dropping to nearly zero by the third week. This pattern is evident in New York, where many deer are harvested early in the season.
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Key Findings from the Research
- Significant Increase in Violence: The research shows that gun violence spikes during the first week of deer hunting season, with a 49% rise in incidents.
- Short-Lived Spike: The elevated rate of gun violence diminishes quickly, falling to near-zero levels by the third week of the season.
- Consistent Pattern: This trend is consistent across various rural areas, not just in New York.
Recommendations for Addressing the Issue
To tackle this problem, the study suggests implementing stricter firearm regulations, including improved rules for firearm storage and carrying. For residents in rural New York, recognizing the increased risk of gun violence during hunting season is crucial. Advocating for enhanced firearm safety measures could be essential for protecting communities as the hunting season approaches.
The study underscores the need for greater awareness and regulation of firearm safety to prevent the increase in gun violence associated with deer hunting season.
By understanding and addressing the link between firearm availability and violence, communities can take proactive steps to safeguard themselves during this critical time.