The widespread incidence of gun violence impacts the well-being of us all, especially our children. In Connecticut, gun violence claims a life approximately every other day.
firearm
violence:
everyone experiences its impact
Gun Violence Is a Public Health Crisis
Firearm violence harms our communities, and puts everyone’s health and well-being at risk. In Connecticut, gun violence claims a life approximately every other day. In our state, guns are the second leading cause of traumatic death (PDF) (next to motor vehicle traffic deaths) for youth under 18 years of age. In the U.S., more than 44,400 people died from firearm-related injuries in 2024.
The magnitude of this crisis demands a public health approach. The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) is committed to preventing and reducing firearm-involved injury and death. DPH addresses the conditions and circumstances that impact community violence—and supports organizations that are making a difference.
Economic Cost
$1.2B per year. That’s the economic cost of gun violence in Connecticut, including costs associated with healthcare, law enforcement, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Equal Homicides and Suicides
On average, the amount of firearm-related homicides and firearm-related suicides in Connecticut are nearly equal.
Youth Deaths
For Connecticut youth under 18 years of age, guns are the 2nd leading cause of death (next to motor vehicle traffic deaths).
of Homicides
Firearms account for 67% of the homicide deaths in Connecticut.
Help Is Available
There are many organizations in Connecticut focused on preventing gun violence and supporting people and communities who have been impacted by gun violence.
