America's gun problem in numbers

Over the past three years, U.S. gun violence trends show mixed patterns. After a sharp rise in 2020–2021 during the pandemic, 2022–2023 saw modest declines in some cities, though rates remain above pre-2020 levels.

The impact varies widely between states. For example, Mississippi has the highest firearm mortality rate at 29.6 per 100,000 people, while Rhode Island has the lowest at 3.1 per 100,000 people.

Urban areas and youth demographics face disproportionate impacts. Factors include increased firearm sales, socioeconomic stressors, and gang violence.

Federal and state policies, like expanded background checks and “red flag” laws, aim to curb access, but political divides hinder major reforms. Public concern persists amid debates over policing and gun control.