Report page 50

The reason(s) why the individual engaged in the behavior that elicited concern or brought them to the attention of law enforcement.

Motive also includes assessing the reasons that may drive an individual to carry out an act of violence.

Motives may be multifaceted and include retaliating for grievances or perceived wrongs (e.g., bullying, failed romantic relationships, or workplace issues); furthering ideological, bias-related, or political beliefs; acting in response to psychotic symptoms; having a desire to kill; achieving fame or notoriety; or committing suicide-by-cop.

The individual’s behaviors or communications have caused fear, alarm, worry, or distress in those who observed them.

Particular attention should be paid to whether others are in fear for their safety as a result of the individual’s behavior.

Family members, friends, coworkers, neighbors, law enforcement, mental health professionals, and others may have been concerned about an individual’s demeanor, mental wellbeing, threatening or disturbing communications, harassing or other violent behavior, obsession with weapons or violent topics, isolating or withdrawing from others, substance use or abuse, or other concerning behaviors.

Current or future ability to access weapons that could be used to cause harm, including firearms, bladed weapons, explosives, chemicals, or poisons.

Access to weapons may include those that are readily available to the individual in their home, whether secured or unsecured, as well as those accessible in the homes of relatives or friends.