Firearm Deaths Among U.S. Youth Reach Crisis Levels, Disproportionately Affecting Black Children
Firearm-related deaths among children and teenagers in the United States have reached alarming levels. In 2023, firearms were the leading cause of death among American youth for the third year in a row, with 2,581 deaths reported. This is a 50% increase since 2019. The impact is particularly devastating for Black children and teens, who are disproportionately affected. According to recent data, Black children and teens were more than eight times as likely to die from firearm homicide than their white peers in 2023. The firearm death rate among children in 2023 was nearly four per 100,000, nearly three times higher than the drowning rate. This crisis affects entire communities, making it difficult for people to heal. To address this issue, 26 states have implemented child access prevention and secure storage laws. These laws establish guidelines for storing firearms, aiming to reduce firearm suicides, unintentional shootings, and firearm homicides among youth. Safe storage laws have been proposed and adopted in some states, showing progress in tackling this pressing concern. However, the names of states that considered gun storage policies this year are not readily available. The rise in youth gun deaths, particularly among Black children and teens, underscores the urgent need for comprehensive solutions. While 26 states have enacted child access prevention and secure storage laws, more can be done to protect our youth. It is crucial for policymakers, communities, and families to work together to reduce firearm-related deaths and ensure the safety of our children.
