Deer Season Boosts Gun Violence in Rural Communities

A recent study indicates that the surge in firearms in rural areas during deer hunting season might lead to a significant rise in gun-related injuries and homicides. Research led by Patrick Sharkey, a sociologist at Princeton University, reveals that the number of deaths from gunfire peaks during the first week of deer hunting season, more than at any other time of the year.

Even after excluding rare hunting accidents, the data, published on August 14 in JAMA Network Open, underscores the risks associated with having loaded guns readily accessible. The study focused on gun violence in rural counties across the U.S. and tracked statistics from 2014 to 2021.

The research compared gun violence rates during the week leading up to the start of deer hunting season with those observed in the initial three weeks of the season. The findings show that shootings resulting in injuries or deaths increased by an average of 49% in the first week of the season compared to the previous week. This increase remained at 41% during the second week but nearly disappeared by the third week.

These results align with historical data showing that a significant number of deer are harvested within the first few days of the season. The study also noted similar trends when rare hunting accidents were excluded, suggesting that most of the incidents involved personal violence rather than accidental discharges.

Supporting this, prior research found a 300% increase in arrests involving shotguns at the start of deer hunting season. The study suggests that the rise in shootings is likely due to the greater availability of firearms during this period.

To reduce these incidents, the research team advocates for tighter firearm regulations, especially concerning storage, carrying, and purchasing, in regions where deer hunting is common.