Every claim in the map classified as fact, in report order.
NTAC has examined targeted violence for over 25 years and published research and operational guidance.
For over 25 years, the U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC) has examined targeted violence and published groundbreaking research and operational guidance
The publication combines NTAC's research on workplace mass attacks with operational guidance for implementing behavioral threat assessment and management programs.
with our latest operational guidance to assist organizations in implementing behavioral threat assessment and management programs
The Chief states that NTAC's support for community violence prevention continues with the release of Preventing Targeted Workplace Violence: A U.S. Secret Service Guide to Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management.
This support continues with the release of Preventing Targeted Workplace Violence: A U.S. Secret Service Guide to Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management
The 2023 report examined 173 acts of mass violence in public and semi-public spaces across the United States over a five-year period.
examined 173 acts of mass violence perpetrated in public and semi-public spaces across the United States over a five-year period
In NTAC's 2023 Mass Attacks in Public Spaces: 2016-2020 study (173 attacks), businesses were the most frequent type of location impacted by mass violence, including restaurants, bars, banks, office spaces, warehouses, and hospitals.
One key finding from the study was that businesses were the most frequent type of location impacted by acts of mass violence
An icon panel states the publication is intended to assist managers and supervisors, security, human resources, information technology, cybersecurity and insider threat, law enforcement, mental health professionals, and community safety partners.
THIS PUBLICATION IS INTENDED TO ASSIST...
NTAC research found there is no specific demographic profile of an attacker.
There is no specific demographic profile of an attacker.
The 50 analyzed incidents are a subset of a population of 173 mass attacks described in NTAC's 2023 report.
The 50 incidents analyzed in this study are a subset from a population of 173 mass attacks
Included incidents harmed three or more people, not counting the attacker(s), and occurred in public or semi-public workplaces.
These incidents resulted in harm to three or more people, not including the attacker(s)
The incidents were perpetrated in public or semi-public workplaces, including restaurants, bars, retail outlets, service centers, manufacturing and distribution facilities, healthcare settings, educational institutions, and military installations.
were perpetrated in public or semi-public workplaces, including restaurants, bars, retail outlets, service centers, manufacturing and distribution facilities, healthcare settings, educational institutions, and military installations
The study uses open sources to examine 50 mass violence incidents on the premises of a business or other work location, covering attacks and attackers' backgrounds and behavioral histories.
describes key findings of research using open sources examining 50 incidents of mass violence which occurred on the premises of a business or other work location
In each of the 50 incidents, the attackers were known or knowable to the workplace before their attacks.
In each incident, the attackers were known or knowable to the workplace prior to their attacks.
The report examines 50 attacks. These were the attacks analyzed across the study.
Across the 50 attacks examined
Across the 50 attacks examined, 128 people were injured.
128 people were injured
Across the 50 attacks examined, 119 people were killed.
119 were killed
Individuals harmed in these attacks frequently included employees, customers, and visitors of the targeted site.
Individuals harmed during attacks frequently included employees, customers, and visitors of the targeted site.
Table 1 lists the location types impacted by the attacks, with n and percentage for each type (retail/services 14, 28%; restaurants/bars 10, 20%; manufacturing/distribution 10, 20%; healthcare 7, 14%; and others).
Sample (N = 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Table 1: Locations Impacted
Retail and service outlets were the most frequently impacted location type (n = 14, 28%), including grocery stores, hotels, salons, banks, law firms, and technology companies.
Sample (n = 14 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Retail and service outlets were the most frequently impacted location type (n = 14, 28%)
Restaurants and bars were among the commonly impacted location types (n = 10, 20%).
Sample (n = 10 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Restaurants/Bars | 10 | 20%
Manufacturing and distribution sites were among the commonly impacted location types (n = 10, 20%).
Sample (n = 10 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Manufacturing/Distribution | 10 | 20%
Healthcare settings were among the commonly impacted location types (n = 7, 14%).
Sample (n = 7 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Healthcare | 7 | 14%
Location-type totals exceed 50 because 3 attacks took place in more than one location type.
Total will exceed 50 as 3 attacks took place in more than one location type.
Firearms were used in most attacks (n = 43, 86%).
Sample (n = 43 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Firearms were used in most attacks (n = 43, 86%)
The firearm use included handguns in 33 attacks.
This included the use of handguns (n = 33)
The firearm use included long guns in 10 attacks.
and long guns (n = 10)
Over three-quarters of attacks (n = 38, 76%) involved the use of one weapon.
Sample (n = 38 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Over three-quarters of attacks (n = 38, 76%) involved the use of one weapon
Nearly one quarter of attacks (n = 12, 24%) involved the use of two weapons.
Sample (n = 12 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
nearly one quarter of attacks (n = 12, 24%) involved the use of two weapons
Some attackers brought additional weapons that were unused during their attack.
Some attackers brought additional weapons that were unused during their attack.
Bladed weapons were used in 7 attacks (14%).
Sample (n = 7 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Bladed Weapon | 7 | 14%
Other weapon types were used in 4 attacks (8%).
Sample (n = 4 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Other | 4 | 8%
Weapon-type totals exceed 50 because 4 attackers used two types of weapons to inflict harm.
Total number exceeds 50 as 4 attackers used two types of weapons to inflict harm.
Many different types of workplaces were impacted by these incidents of mass violence, as shown in Table 1.
Many different types of workplaces were impacted by these incidents of mass violence, as illustrated in Table 1.
Table 1 reports that retail and services locations were impacted in 14 attacks (28%).
Sample (n = 14 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Retail/Services | 14 | 28%
Table 1 reports that open spaces were impacted in 4 attacks (8%).
Sample (n = 4 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Open Spaces | 4 | 8%
Table 1 reports that residential community locations were impacted in 2 attacks (4%).
Sample (n = 2 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Residential Community | 2 | 4%
Table 1 reports that non-profit services locations were impacted in 2 attacks (4%).
Sample (n = 2 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Non-profit Services | 2 | 4%
Table 1 reports that government locations were impacted in 2 attacks (4%).
Sample (n = 2 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Government | 2 | 4%
Table 1 reports that an education location was impacted in 1 attack (2%).
Sample (n = 1 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Education | 1 | 2%
Table 1 reports that a military location was impacted in 1 attack (2%).
Sample (n = 1 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Military | 1 | 2%
Table 2 reports that a firearm was used in 43 attacks (86%).
Sample (n = 43 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Firearm | 43 | 86%
Sixteen attackers were actively employed by the location they targeted at the time of their attack.
Sixteen attackers were actively employed by the location they targeted at the time of their attack
Most of these attackers (n = 13) initiated their attack during or immediately after a work shift.
most of these attackers (n = 13) initiated their attack during or immediately after a work shift
Four of these attackers concealed their weapons on their person before the attack.
Of these attackers, four concealed their weapon(s) on their person prior to their attack, while five attackers kept their weapon in a vehicle
Five attackers kept their weapon in a vehicle on the work premises and later retrieved it for the attack.
five attackers kept their weapon in a vehicle on the work premises and later retrieved the weapon
Two attackers left the work premises during their shift to go home and retrieve weapons, then returned to attack.
two attackers left the work premises during their shift to go home and retrieve weapons
One attacker was a U.S. military service member on watch duty and was armed with service weapons during his attack.
One attacker was a U.S. military service member on watch duty and was armed with service weapons
All attacks using bladed weapons (n = 7) were perpetrated by customers, clients, patients, or visitors of the targeted location.
All attacks using bladed weapons (n = 7) were perpetrated by customers, clients, patients, or visitors of the targeted location.
Two attacks using bladed weapons were perpetrated at homeless shelters by residents.
Two attacks using bladed weapons were perpetrated at homeless shelters by residents.
An additional two attacks using bladed weapons targeted staff and patients at mental health facilities.
An additional two attacks using bladed weapons targeted staff and patients at mental health facilities
Other attacks using bladed weapons targeted a property management office, the outdoor community space of an apartment complex, and a strip club.
Other attacks using bladed weapons targeted a property management office, the outdoor community space of an apartment complex, and a strip club.
Other types of weapons were less common (n = 4), including a vehicle, propane tank, gasoline, and a homemade explosive device.
Other types of weapons were less common (n = 4), including a vehicle, propane tank, gasoline, and a homemade explosive device.
Table 3 illustrates how the attacks were resolved, broken down by whether attackers stopped on their own, law enforcement intervened, bystanders intervened, or the attack was otherwise ended.
Table 3 illustrates how attacks were resolved.
In over three-quarters of attacks (n = 38, 76%), attackers stopped causing harm on their own.
Sample (n = 38 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
In over three-quarters of attacks (n = 38, 76%), attackers stopped causing harm on their own
Of the attackers who stopped on their own, 15 were then arrested at or away from the scene.
then were arrested at or away from the scene of the attack (n = 15)
Of the attackers who stopped on their own, 23 died by suicide.
or they died by suicide (n = 23)
Less frequently, attackers were stopped by law enforcement intervention (n = 9).
Less frequently, attackers were stopped by law enforcement intervention (n = 9)
Bystanders intervened and stopped the attacker in 2 attacks (n = 2).
bystanders intervened and stopped the attacker (n = 2)
One attack ended after the attacker's weapon ran out of ammunition.
One attack ended after the attacker's weapon ran out of ammunition.
Attackers died during or shortly after most attacks (n = 30, 60%), either by suicide or by being killed by law enforcement.
Sample (n = 30 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Attackers died during or shortly after most attacks (n = 30, 60%)
Workplace attacks ended with the attacker's suicide at a higher rate (46%) than the non-workplace mass violence incidents (16%) examined in NTAC's 2023 study Mass Attacks in Public Spaces: 2016–2020.
Sample (n = 23 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
attacks ended with the attacker's suicide at higher rates (46%) than in non-workplace related mass violence incidents (16%)
Table 3 reports that 15 attackers (30%) stopped on their own and were then arrested at or away from the scene.
Sample (n = 15 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
— Arrested at/away from scene | 15 | 30%
Table 3 reports that 23 attackers (46%) stopped on their own and then died by suicide.
Sample (n = 23 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
— Died by suicide | 23 | 46%
Table 3 reports that law enforcement intervened to end 9 of the attacks (18%).
Sample (n = 9 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Law enforcement intervened, then... | 9 | 18%
Table 3 reports that in 2 attacks (4%) law enforcement intervened and the attacker was then arrested at or away from the scene.
Sample (n = 2 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
— Arrested at/away from scene | 2 | 4%
Table 3 reports that in 7 attacks (14%) law enforcement intervened and the attacker was killed by law enforcement.
Sample (n = 7 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
— Killed by law enforcement | 7 | 14%
Table 3 reports that bystanders intervened to end 2 of the attacks (4%).
Sample (n = 2 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Bystanders intervened, then... | 2 | 4%
Of the 2 bystander-ended attacks in Table 3, 1 (2%) ended with the attacker arrested at or away from the scene and 1 (2%) is listed as Other.
Sample (n = 1 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
— Other | 1 | 2%
Table 3 reports 1 attack (2%) ended because the weapon was rendered inoperable, after which the attacker was arrested at or away from the scene (1, 2%).
Sample (n = 1 of 50) · incidents (attacks) in the study
Weapon rendered inoperable, then... | 1 | 2%
All but one of the 50 incidents examined were perpetrated by a single attacker.
All but one of the 50 incidents examined were perpetrated by a single attacker.
The one incident with more than one attacker involved a pair who opened fire at a bar after one attacker had been thrown out hours earlier.
The one incident perpetrated by more than one attacker involved a pair of assailants that opened fire at a bar
Nearly all attackers were male (n = 49, 96%).
Sample (n = 49 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
Nearly all attackers were male (n = 49, 96%)
Attacker ages ranged from 22 to 66 years old.
ages ranged from 22 to 66 years old
The average age of workplace attackers was 41 years.
The average age of workplace attackers was 41 years.
Nearly all attackers (n = 47, 92%) experienced noteworthy life stressors within five years of their attack.
Sample (n = 47 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
Nearly all attackers (n = 47, 92%) experienced noteworthy life stressors within five years of their attack.
Stressors frequently included financial difficulties (n = 28, 55%).
Sample (n = 28 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
financial difficulties (n = 28, 55%)
Stressors also included problems in the attacker's personal life (n = 24, 47%).
Sample (n = 24 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
problems in their personal lives (n = 24, 47%)
Stressors also included employment-related issues (n = 23, 45%), such as conflicts with coworkers or disciplinary actions or termination at work.
Sample (n = 23 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
employment-related issues (n = 23, 45%)
In many cases, attackers experienced multiple stressors at once.
In many cases, attackers experienced multiple stressors at once.
As an example of multiple stressors, a U.S. military service member experienced a number of personal and professional stressors in the year leading up to his attack.
For instance, a U.S. military service member experienced a number of personal and professional stressors in the year leading up to his attack.
The Key Findings for Attackers box states that 78% of attackers had a history of behaviors that elicited concern from others.
Sample (n = 40 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
78% of attackers had a history of behaviors that elicited concern from others.
The Key Findings for Attackers box states that 65% of attackers had prior criminal charges.
Sample (n = 33 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
65% of attackers had prior criminal charges.
The Key Findings for Attackers box states that 53% of attackers had at least one instance of domestic violence in their past.
Sample (n = 27 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
53% of attackers had at least one instance of domestic violence in their past.
Over three-quarters of attackers (n = 40, 78%) exhibited behaviors that elicited concern in others.
Sample (n = 40 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
Over three-quarters of attackers (n = 40, 78%) exhibited behaviors that elicited concern in others
Over half of attackers (n = 31, 61%) exhibited behaviors that caused observers to fear for the safety of the attacker, themselves, or others.
Sample (n = 31 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
over half of attackers (n = 31, 61%) exhibited behaviors that caused observers to fear for the safety of the attacker, themselves, or others
Some attackers engaged in violence directed at romantic partners or relatives, prompting victims to seek protective or restraining orders.
some attackers engaged in violence directed at romantic partners or relatives, prompting victims to seek protective orders or restraining orders against the attackers
Other behaviors that elicited concern included disturbing or threatening statements, strange or unusual behavior, and stalking and harassing others.
Other behaviors that elicited concern included attackers making disturbing or threatening statements, exhibiting strange or unusual behaviors, and stalking and harassing others.
Nearly two-thirds of workplace attackers (n = 33, 65%) had a history of criminal charges.
Sample (n = 33 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
Nearly two-thirds of workplace attackers (n = 33, 65%) had a history of criminal charges.
Most of these attackers had charges for non-violent offenses (n = 29).
Sample (n = 29 of 33) · attackers with a history of criminal charges
Most of these attackers had charges for non-violent offenses (n = 29)
Some attackers had charges for violent offenses (n = 16).
Sample (n = 16 of 33) · attackers with a history of criminal charges
some had charges for violent offenses (n = 16)
Some attackers had charges for domestic violence (n = 9).
Sample (n = 9 of 33) · attackers with a history of criminal charges
domestic violence (n = 9)
Some attackers had charges for sex crimes (n = 4).
Sample (n = 4 of 33) · attackers with a history of criminal charges
or sex crimes (n = 4)
Over half of attackers (n = 27, 53%) had at least one instance of domestic violence in their past.
Sample (n = 27 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
over half of attackers (n = 27, 53%) had at least one instance of domestic violence in their past
Only around one-third of these attackers (n = 9) were arrested or charged for such an offense.
Sample (n = 9 of 27) · attackers with at least one instance of domestic violence in their past
only around one-third of these attackers (n = 9) were arrested or charged for such an offense
Not all criminal activity resulted in an arrest or a criminal charge.
not all criminal activity resulted in an arrest or a criminal charge.
Over two-fifths of attackers were current or former employees of the targeted location (n = 22, 43%).
Sample (n = 22 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
over two-fifths of attackers were current or former employees of the targeted location (n = 22, 43%)
Over one-third of attackers (n = 20, 39%) were customers, clients, patients, or visitors with frequent or substantive contact with the targeted location.
Sample (n = 20 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
over one-third (n = 20, 39%) were customers, clients, patients, or visitors with frequent or substantive contact with the targeted location
A smaller number of attackers (n = 9, 18%) were current or former romantic partners or relatives of individuals connected to the targeted site.
Sample (n = 9 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
a smaller number (n = 9, 18%) were current or former romantic partners or relatives of individuals connected to the targeted site
Figure 1 is a pie chart of attacker affiliation to the targeted site: Current or Former Employees (n = 22), Customers, Clients, Patients, and Visitors (n = 20), and Romantic Partners and Relatives (n = 9).
FIGURE 1 Attacker Affiliation to Targeted Site
There were 22 attacks perpetrated by current or former employees of the targeted workplace, each by a lone attacker.
There were 22 attacks perpetrated by current or former employees of the targeted workplace, each perpetrated by a lone attacker.
All but one (n = 21, 95%) of the current or former employee attackers were male.
Sample (n = 21 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
All but one (n = 21, 95%) of the current or former employee attackers were male.
Ages of employee attackers ranged from 22 to 64 years old, and the average age was 40 years.
Ages ranged from 22 to 64 years old, and the average age was 40 years.
Table 4 illustrates the motives of employee attackers, which were often multifaceted.
Table 4 illustrates the motives of employee attackers, which were often multifaceted.
All attackers but one (n = 21, 95%) were motivated, at least in part, by a grievance.
Sample (n = 21 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
All attackers but one (n = 21, 95%) were motivated, at least in part, by a grievance.
Three-quarters of attackers (n = 17, 77%) were specifically motivated, at least in part, by a workplace-related grievance.
Sample (n = 17 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Three-quarters of attackers (n = 17, 77%) were specifically motivated, at least in part, by a workplace-related grievance.
These grievances were related to workload, performance evaluations, disciplinary actions, termination decisions, and ongoing conflicts with supervisors or colleagues.
These grievances were related to workload, performance evaluations, disciplinary actions, termination decisions, and ongoing conflicts with supervisors or colleagues.
Nearly one-third (n = 7, 32%) of employee attackers had multiple motives for their attack.
Sample (n = 7 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Nearly one-third (n = 7, 32%) of employee attackers had multiple motives
Psychotic symptoms were a motive for 5 employee attackers (23%).
Sample (n = 5 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Psychotic Symptoms | 5 | 23%
Personal grievances were a motive for 4 employee attackers (18%).
Sample (n = 4 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Personal | 4 | 18%
Domestic grievances were a motive for 3 employee attackers (14%).
Sample (n = 3 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Domestic | 3 | 14%
In the current or former employees section, percentages reflect the 22 attacks perpetrated by current and former employees of the targeted location.
For this section, percentages reflect the 22 attacks perpetrated by current and former employees of the targeted location.
The Key Findings for Employees box states that 91% of employee attackers had at least one stressor within five years of their attack.
Sample (n = 20 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
91% of attackers had at least one stressor within five years of their attack.
The Key Findings for Employees box states that 82% of employee attackers elicited concern from others, including 41% who elicited concern at work.
Sample (n = 18 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
82% of attackers elicited concern from others, including 41% who elicited concern at work.
The Key Findings for Employees box states that 73% of employee attackers were currently employed at the facility they targeted.
Sample (n = 16 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
73% of attackers were currently employed at the facility they targeted.
Table 4 reports fame or notoriety as a motive component for 1 of the 22 employee attackers (5%).
Sample (n = 1 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Fame or Notoriety | 1 | 5%
Table 4 reports a desire to kill as a motive component for 1 of the 22 employee attackers (5%).
Sample (n = 1 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Desire to Kill | 1 | 5%
Table 4 reports an Other motive component for 1 of the 22 employee attackers (5%).
Sample (n = 1 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Desire to Kill | 1 | 5% | | Other | 1 | 5%
77% of employee attackers shared concerning communications.
Sample (n = 17 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
77% of attackers shared concerning communications.
Most employee attackers (n = 20, 91%) had significant stressors within five years of their attack.
Sample (n = 20 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Most employee attackers (n = 20, 91%) had significant stressors within five years of their attack.
Financial difficulties were among the most common stressors of employee attackers (n = 13, 59%).
Sample (n = 13 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
financial difficulties (n = 13, 59%)
Over one-third of attackers (n = 8, 36%) were victims of bullying or harassment at work.
Sample (n = 8 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
over one-third of attackers (n = 8, 36%) were victims of bullying or harassment at work
Most employee attackers (n = 18, 82%) elicited concern from others around them.
Sample (n = 18 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Most employee attackers (n = 18, 82%) elicited concern from others around them
Half of those who elicited concern (n = 9) did so with colleagues in the workplace.
Sample (n = 9 of 18) · employee attackers who elicited concern from others
half of whom (n = 9) elicited concern from colleagues in the workplace
Over three-quarters of employee attackers (n = 17, 77%) made concerning communications.
Sample (n = 17 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Over three-quarters of employee attackers (n = 17, 77%) made concerning communications.
Concerning communications included threatening statements (n = 9).
Sample (n = 9 of 17) · employee attackers who made concerning communications
This included threatening statements (n = 9)
Other statements were not objectively threatening but elicited concern from those who heard them (n = 10).
Sample (n = 10 of 17) · employee attackers who made concerning communications
statements that were not objectively threatening but elicited concern from those who heard them (n = 10)
Most employee attackers were currently employed at the targeted site at the time of the attack (n = 16, 73%).
Sample (n = 16 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
most employee attackers were currently employed at the targeted site at the time of the attack (n = 16, 73%)
Current employee attackers ranged in tenure from 13 days to 22 years.
ranging in tenure from 13 days to 22 years
Most current employee attackers (n = 12) initiated their attack during or immediately following a work shift.
Sample (n = 12 of 16) · attackers who were current employees of the targeted site
most (n = 12) initiated their attack either during or immediately following a work shift
Six attackers were former employees at the time of their attack.
Six attackers were former employees
Most of the former employees (n = 5) had been terminated by the organization.
Sample (n = 5 of 6) · attackers who were former employees of the targeted site
most (n = 5) of whom had been terminated by the organization
The time between termination and attack varied, from one attacker who began his attack at the end of a termination meeting to another who targeted a site where he had been fired seven years earlier.
ranging from one attacker who immediately began his attack at the conclusion of a termination meeting, to another attacker who targeted a location where he had been terminated seven years earlier
Two employees perpetrated attacks after submitting their resignation.
Two employees perpetrated attacks after submitting their resignation.
Figure 2 is a pie chart of the employment status of employee attackers: Current (n = 16) and Former (n = 6).
FIGURE 2 Employment Status
16 of 22 employee attackers (73%) experienced employment-related issues, one of the most common stressor types.
Sample (n = 16 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
employment-related issues (n = 16, 73%)
Of the 16 attackers currently employed at the targeted site, six were in good standing with their employers.
six were in good standing with their employers
Eight attackers had substantive performance issues at work, resulting in disciplinary action for all but one.
Eight attackers had substantive performance issues at work, resulting in disciplinary action for all but one.
Performance issues included frequent or substantive work mistakes, safety violations, tardiness, and excessive or unexcused absences. Discipline ranged from complaints and reprimands to termination.
they included frequent or substantive work mistakes, safety violations, tardiness, and excessive or unexcused absences
Information on performance was not found for eight employee attackers.
Information on performance was not found for eight employee attackers.
Table 5 gives work performance (good standing 6, 27%; substantive issues 8, 36%; unknown 8, 36%) and behavioral conduct (good standing 8, 36%; substantive issues 10, 45%, of which toxicity 7, 32%; unknown 4, 18%) of employee attackers.
Sample (N = 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Table 5: Performance and Conduct
Over two-fifths of employee attackers (n = 10, 45%) had known substantive issues pertaining to their behavioral conduct at the workplace they attacked.
Sample (n = 10 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Over two-fifths (n = 10, 45%) of employee attackers had known substantive issues pertaining to their behavioral conduct at the workplace they attacked.
For most of these attackers (n = 7), their misconduct could be characterized as toxic.
For most of these attackers (n = 7), their misconduct could be characterized as toxic
Toxic misconduct included making racist, derogatory, or even threatening statements towards colleagues.
This included making racist, derogatory, or even threatening statements towards their colleagues.
Two of these attackers exhibited toxic behavior in other organizations as well.
Two of these attackers exhibited toxic behavior in other organizations as well.
Three attackers exhibited behaviors that were not considered toxic but still represented issues with conduct, including chronic absences or tardiness.
Three attackers exhibited behaviors that were not considered toxic but still represented issues with conduct, including chronic absences or tardiness.
Information on conduct could not be found for four employee attackers.
Information on conduct could not be found for four employee attackers.
The report describes the work performance of employee attackers as mixed, as shown in Table 5.
The work performance for employee attackers was mixed, as illustrated in Table 5.
Disciplinary actions taken against employee attackers with performance issues ranged from complaints and letters of reprimand to termination.
Disciplinary actions ranged from complaints and letters of reprimand to termination.
Table 5 reports that 6 employee attackers (27%) were in good standing on work performance.
Sample (n = 6 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Good standing | 6 | 27%
Table 5 reports that 8 employee attackers (36%) had substantive work performance issues.
Sample (n = 8 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Substantive issues | 8 | 36%
Table 5 reports that work performance was unknown for 8 employee attackers (36%).
Sample (n = 8 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Unknown | 8 | 36%
Table 5 reports that 8 employee attackers (36%) were in good standing on behavioral conduct.
Sample (n = 8 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Good standing | 8 | 36%
Table 5 reports toxicity, a sub-category of substantive conduct issues, for 7 employee attackers (32%).
Sample (n = 7 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Toxicity | 7 | 32%
Table 5 reports that behavioral conduct was unknown for 4 employee attackers (18%).
Sample (n = 4 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Unknown | 4 | 18%
Nearly half of employee attackers (n = 10, 45%) had at least one infraction or disciplinary action on record.
Sample (n = 10 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Nearly half of employee attackers (n = 10, 45%) had at least one infraction or disciplinary action on record
The infractions counted included complaints about job performance, write-ups for behavioral misconduct or insubordination, and terminations.
This included complaints or reprimands about an employee's job performance, write-ups for behavioral misconduct or insubordination, and terminations
Five attackers were terminated from the targeted site prior to their attack.
Five attackers were terminated from the targeted site prior to their attack
One attacker initiated his attack at the conclusion of a termination meeting.
one attacker who initiated his attack at the conclusion of a termination meeting
Nearly half (n = 10, 45%) of the organizations impacted by employee attacks had one or more identifiable issues pertaining to their organizational climate.
Sample (n = 10 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Nearly half (n = 10, 45%) of the organizations impacted by these attacks had one or more identifiable issues pertaining to their organizational climate.
Nine employee attackers (41%) alleged to people at work or in their personal lives that they had experienced unfair treatment at the targeted workplace, including unfair promotion or demotion decisions or conflicts with supervisors and management. Table 6 labels this row "Alleged mistreatment at work".
Sample (n = 9 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
nine employee attackers (41%) made allegations to people at work or in their personal lives that they had experienced unfair treatment at the targeted workplace
Over one-third of employee attackers (n = 8, 36%) reportedly experienced bullying or harassment by coworkers before the attack.
Sample (n = 8 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
over one-third of employee attackers (n = 8, 36%) reportedly experienced bullying or harassment by coworkers in the time leading up to the attack
In four cases, the attacker filed reports or voiced concerns about workplace experiences, including workload grievances and bullying or harassment.
In four cases, the attacker filed reports or voiced concerns about their experiences in the workplace
Table 6 lists four employee attackers (18%) with reported complaints or grievances.
Sample (n = 4 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Reported complaints or grievances | 4 | 18%
There were 19 attacks perpetrated by 20 individuals known or knowable to the targeted location as customers, clients, patients, or visitors.
There were 19 attacks perpetrated by 20 individuals who were known or knowable to the targeted location as customers, clients, patients, and visitors
All but one customer, client, patient, or visitor who perpetrated an attack was male (n = 19, 95%).
Sample (n = 19 of 20) · customer, client, patient, and visitor attackers
All but one (n = 19, 95%) customer, client, patient, or visitor who perpetrated an attack were male
Ages ranged from 23 to 66 years old, and the average age was 41 years.
Ages ranged from 23 to 66 years old, and the average age was 41 years
Over three-quarters (n = 15, 79%) of the 19 attacks were motivated, in whole or in part, by a grievance against an organization or its employees.
Sample (n = 15 of 19) · attacks by customers, clients, patients, and visitors
Over three-quarters (n = 15, 79%) of the 19 attacks perpetrated by customers, clients, patients, and visitors were motivated, in whole or in part, by a grievance
The key findings box reports that 79% of incidents were motivated by grievances.
Sample (n = 15 of 19) · attacks by customers, clients, patients, and visitors
79% of incidents were motivated by grievances
The key findings box reports that 65% engaged in concerning behaviors at the targeted location before their attack.
Sample (n = 13 of 20) · customer, client, patient, and visitor attackers
65% engaged in concerning behaviors at the targeted location prior to their attack
The key findings box reports that 60% experienced a triggering event prior to their attack.
Sample (n = 12 of 20) · customer, client, patient, and visitor attackers
60% experienced a triggering event prior to their attack
Nearly two-thirds (n = 13, 65%) of these attackers engaged in concerning or threatening behaviors at the targeted location before their attack.
Sample (n = 13 of 20) · customer, client, patient, and visitor attackers
Nearly two-thirds (n = 13, 65%) of the attackers who were known or knowable as customers, clients, patients, and visitors engaged in concerning or threatening behaviors at the targeted location prior to their attack
Prior behaviors ranged from being ejected for erratic or rude conduct to threatening to harm or kill employees or other customers.
ranging from attackers who were ejected from the establishment due to erratic or rude behavior, to attackers who threatened to harm or kill employees or other customers
In the customers, clients, patients, and visitors section, percentages reflect the 20 customers, clients, patients, and visitors who perpetrated attacks.
For this section, percentages reflect those 20 customers, clients, patients, and visitors who perpetrated attacks.
Over half (n = 12, 60%) of the customer, client, patient, and visitor attackers appeared to experience a specific triggering event prior to attacking.
Sample (n = 12 of 20) · customer, client, patient, and visitor attackers
Over half (n = 12, 60%) of the customer, client, patient, and visitor attackers appeared to experience a specific triggering event prior to perpetrating an attack
All triggering events occurred within one month of the attack, ranging from 2.5 hours to 2-4 weeks before the incident.
These triggering events all occurred within one month of the attack, ranging from 2.5 hours to 2-4 weeks prior to the incident
The triggers included a spouse saying they were filing for divorce, an attacker being served an eviction notice or protective order, a lawsuit dismissal, and being fired from a job.
a spouse saying they were filing for divorce
There were nine attacks perpetrated by current or former romantic partners or relatives of individuals connected to the targeted site.
There were nine attacks perpetrated by attackers who were current or former romantic partners or relatives of individuals connected to the targeted site
Each of these attackers carried out their attack alone.
Each of these attackers carried out their attack alone
All nine attackers in this group were male.
All nine attackers were male
Ages ranged from 27 to 58 years old, and the average age was 43 years.
Ages ranged from 27 to 58 years old, and the average age was 43 years
All but one of these attacks (n = 8, 89%) were motivated, in whole or in part, by a grievance.
Sample (n = 8 of 9) · attacks by current or former romantic partners or relatives (9 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
All but one of these attacks (n = 8, 89%) were motivated, in whole or in part, by a grievance
The key findings box reports that 89% of incidents were motivated by grievances.
Sample (n = 8 of 9) · attacks by current or former romantic partners or relatives (9 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
89% of incidents were motivated by grievances
Most attacks (n = 7) involved grievances about a domestic matter involving a romantic partner.
most attacks (n = 7) involved grievances about a domestic matter involving a romantic partner
Six attackers targeted their estranged or former romantic partners at their places of employment.
This includes six attackers who targeted their estranged or former romantic partners at their places of employment
Over three-quarters (n = 7, 78%) of these attackers had threatened romantic partners or family members and engaged in at least one act of domestic violence before the attack.
Sample (n = 7 of 9) · attacks by current or former romantic partners or relatives (9 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
over three-quarters of these attackers (n = 7, 78%) had a history of making threatening statements toward romantic partners or family members
The key findings box reports that 78% of attackers had a history of domestic violence.
Sample (n = 7 of 9) · attacks by current or former romantic partners or relatives (9 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
78% of attackers had a history of domestic violence
Only three of these attackers faced criminal charges for their acts of domestic violence.
Sample (n = 3 of 7) · romantic-partner or relative attackers with a history of threats and domestic violence
only three of these attackers faced criminal charges for their acts of domestic violence
Two attackers had familial relationships with one or more employees of the targeted location, including an estranged attacker who targeted a restaurant owned by his nephews and a psychotic attacker who fired at a bar owned by his cousin.
Two attackers had familial relationships with one or more employees of their targeted location
For the romantic partners and relatives section, percentages reflect the nine attacks in that group.
For this section, percentages reflect these nine attacks.
One attacker targeted his romantic partner's father at his place of employment.
one attacker who targeted his romantic partner's father at his place of employment
Over half of all workplace attackers (n = 30, 59%) were found to have experienced mental health symptoms prior to their attack.
Sample (n = 30 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
Over half of all workplace attackers (n = 30, 59%) were found to have experienced mental health symptoms prior to their attack
Psychosis was found in 15 attackers, evidenced by delusions and hallucinations.
Sample (n = 15 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
including psychosis (n = 15)
Hallucinations were experienced by five attackers (n = 5).
Sample (n = 5 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
hallucinations (n = 5)
Paranoid delusions were the most common type of delusional belief experienced by attackers.
Paranoid delusions were the most common type of delusional beliefs experienced by attackers
Auditory hallucinations, such as hearing voices, were the most common form of hallucination.
auditory hallucinations (e.g., hearing voices) were the most common form of hallucinations
Other symptoms included depression (n = 15).
Sample (n = 15 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
depression (n = 15)
Other symptoms included paranoia (n = 11).
Sample (n = 11 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
paranoia (n = 11)
Nearly two-fifths of attackers (n = 20, 39%) received a prior diagnosis or treatment for a mental health issue before the attack.
Sample (n = 20 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
Nearly two-fifths of attackers (n = 20, 39%) received a prior diagnosis or treatment for a mental health issue before the attack.
Attackers who targeted a current or former workplace had a higher proportion of mental health struggles (n = 14, 64%) than other attackers.
Sample (n = 14 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
attackers who targeted a current or former place of employment experienced a higher proportion (n = 14, 64%) of mental health struggles than other attackers
Employee attackers experienced the most paranoia (n = 9, 41%) compared to other attacker categories.
Sample (n = 9 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
Employee attackers experienced the most paranoia (n = 9, 41%) and psychosis (n = 9, 41%)
Employee attackers also had psychosis (n = 9, 41%), compared to other attacker categories.
Sample (n = 9 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
and psychosis (n = 9, 41%)
Employee attackers had delusional beliefs (n = 5, 23%).
Sample (n = 5 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
including delusional beliefs (n = 5, 23%)
Employee attackers had hallucinations (n = 4, 18%).
Sample (n = 4 of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
hallucinations (n = 4, 18%)
Attackers who targeted romantic partners or family members had higher rates of depression (n = 4, 44%) than others.
Sample (n = 4 of 9) · attacks by current or former romantic partners or relatives (9 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
this group had higher rates of depression (n = 4, 44%) and suicidal ideation (n = 3, 33%) than others
The same group had higher rates of suicidal ideation (n = 3, 33%) than others.
Sample (n = 3 of 9) · attacks by current or former romantic partners or relatives (9 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
and suicidal ideation (n = 3, 33%) than others
Evidence of suicidal ideation existed for only three employee attackers.
Although there was evidence of suicidal ideation for only three employee attackers
Employee attacks often culminated in the attacker's death, either by suicide (55%) or by law enforcement response (23%).
Sample (n = 12† of 22) · current or former employee attackers (22 attacks, each by a lone attacker)
employee attacks often culminated in the attacker's death, either by suicide (55%) or by law enforcement response (23%)
Figure 3 charts any mental health symptom, paranoia, psychosis, depression, and suicidal ideation for current or former employees, customers and visitors, and romantic partners or relatives.
FIGURE 3 Mental Health Symptoms
Figure 3 shows any mental health symptom in 64% of current or former employee attackers, 55% of customer, client, patient, and visitor attackers, and 56% of romantic partner and relative attackers.
Sample (N = 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Figure 3 columns: employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
| Any | 64% | 55% | 56% |
Figure 3 shows paranoia in 41% of current or former employee attackers, 5% of customer, client, patient, and visitor attackers, and 11% of romantic partner and relative attackers.
Sample (N = 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Figure 3 columns: employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
| Paranoia | 41% | 5% | 11% |
Figure 3 shows psychosis in 41% of current or former employee attackers, 20% of customer, client, patient, and visitor attackers, and 22% of romantic partner and relative attackers.
Sample (N = 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Figure 3 columns: employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
| Psychosis | 41% | 20% | 22% |
Figure 3 shows depression in 32% of current or former employee attackers, 20% of customer, client, patient, and visitor attackers, and 44% of romantic partner and relative attackers.
Sample (N = 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Figure 3 columns: employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
| Depression | 32% | 20% | 44% |
Figure 3 shows suicidal ideation in 14% of current or former employee attackers, 15% of customer, client, patient, and visitor attackers, and 33% of romantic partner and relative attackers.
Sample (N = 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Figure 3 columns: employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
| Suicidal Ideation | 14% | 15% | 33% |
Six of the 51 workplace attackers experienced delusions (n = 6), evidencing psychosis.
Sample (n = 6 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
delusions (n = 6)
Nine of the 51 workplace attackers experienced suicidal ideations (n = 9).
Sample (n = 9 of 51) · attackers, all affiliation types
suicidal ideations (n = 9)
The Secret Service originally pioneered the BTAM approach to prevent assassinations and safeguard the nation's leaders.
The Secret Service originally pioneered this approach to prevent assassinations and safeguard the nation's leaders.
cite page 30 Part 2: A Guide for Workplace Violence Prevention
The Secret Service model has since been adapted to prevent many forms of targeted violence, including acts of targeted workplace violence.
The Secret Service model has since been adapted to prevent many forms of targeted violence impacting communities, including acts of targeted workplace violence.
cite page 30 Part 2: A Guide for Workplace Violence Prevention
The publication offers a scalable eight-step framework for implementing a BTAM program in organizations of varying sizes and resources.
we offer a scalable eight-step framework for implementing a BTAM program in organizations of varying sizes and resources.
cite page 32 Part 2: A Guide for Workplace Violence Prevention
The strategies are intended to help organizations prevent all forms of targeted workplace violence, including violence toward employees, executives, customers, visitors, and others.
The strategies identified in this publication are intended to assist organizations in preventing all forms of targeted workplace violence, including violence toward an organization's employees, executives, customers, visitors, and others.
cite page 32 Part 2: A Guide for Workplace Violence Prevention
The guidance was informed by Secret Service protective operations and decades of NTAC research, training, and consultation.
This guidance was informed by several methods and data sources, including the protective operations used by the Secret Service and decades of NTAC research, training, and consultation
cite page 32 Part 2: A Guide for Workplace Violence Prevention
NTAC reviewed the extant literature and conducted informational interviews with personnel from a variety of organizations and industries, including retail, technology, food service, healthcare, education, entertainment, finance, government, and law enforcement.
NTAC also reviewed the extant literature on targeted violence and workplace violence prevention and conducted a series of informational interviews with personnel from a variety of organizations and industries, including retail, technology, food service, healthcare, education, entertainment, finance, government, and law enforcement.
cite page 32 Part 2: A Guide for Workplace Violence Prevention
Interview subjects participated on the condition of confidentiality to allow for an open discussion.
Interview subjects participated on the condition of confidentiality to allow for an open discussion.
cite page 32 Part 2: A Guide for Workplace Violence Prevention
Participants included professionals directly involved in organizational BTAM teams, as well as executives, managers, supervisors, and personnel in HR, security, insider threat, and cybersecurity.
Participants represented a wide range of roles and disciplines, including professionals directly involved in organizational BTAM teams, as well as organizational executives, managers, supervisors, and personnel in human resources, security, insider threat, cybersecurity, and more.
cite page 32 Part 2: A Guide for Workplace Violence Prevention
Some points shared by interview subjects are used as Voices from the Field throughout the publication.
Some points shared by interview subjects are utilized as "Voices from the Field" throughout this publication.
cite page 32 Part 2: A Guide for Workplace Violence Prevention
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 928 workers lost their lives in intentional homicides between 2023 and 2024.
928 workers tragically lost their lives in intentional homicides between 2023 and 2024.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, during 2023-2024 an additional 77,780 private-sector workers suffered nonfatal injuries from workplace violence that required days away from work, restricted job duties, or transfers.
During that same timeframe, an additional 77,780 workers in the private sector alone suffered nonfatal injuries from workplace violence that required days away from work, restricted job duties, or transfers.
Surviving victims and employers face financial costs including medical bills, lost productivity, worker's compensation and disability claims, and subsequent litigation.
financial costs associated with medical bills, loss of productivity, worker’s compensation and disability claims, and subsequent litigation
Some states have enacted legislation that requires certain employers to develop policies or plans to prevent workplace violence.
Some states have enacted legislation that requires certain employers to develop policies or plans to prevent workplace violence.
cite page 40 Step 2: Establish BTAM Program Policy and Procedures
On September 30, 2023, California passed S.B. 553, which requires most California employers to create and maintain a written workplace violence prevention plan. (Source: endnote 7.)
on September 30, 2023, California passed Senate Bill (S.B.) 553, which requires most California employers to create and maintain a written workplace violence prevention plan.
cite page 40 Step 2: Establish BTAM Program Policy and Procedures
The plan must be specific to the hazards and complexities of each work area, and employers are required to maintain a workplace violence incident log. (Source: endnote 7.)
The plan must be specific to the hazards and complexities of each work area, and employers are required to maintain a workplace violence incident log.
cite page 40 Step 2: Establish BTAM Program Policy and Procedures
The legislation sets standards for documentation, record-keeping, and employee training. It also mandates that the violence prevention plan be written and easily available to employees. (Source: endnote 7.)
This legislation also sets standards for documentation, record-keeping, and employee training, and it mandates the violence prevention plan be written and easily available to employees.
cite page 40 Step 2: Establish BTAM Program Policy and Procedures
Since the passage of California's S.B. 553, many other states have actively worked to establish or expand their workplace violence legislative requirements.
Since the passage of California's S.B. 553, many other states have actively worked to establish or expand their workplace violence legislative requirements.
cite page 40 Step 2: Establish BTAM Program Policy and Procedures
A 2025 report by the Security Executive Council and Mercyhurst University examined 424 incidents targeting executives.
A report published in 2025 by the Security Executive Council and Mercyhurst University examined 424 incidents
cite page 58 Step 4: Identify and Process Reports of Concerning Behavior
There are three categories of Assessment Themes: contextual themes, behavioral themes, and summative themes.
There are three relevant categories of Assessment Themes: contextual themes, behavioral themes, and summative themes
Prior NTAC research has found that many past attackers had substantial negative experiences related to the contextual themes.
prior NTAC research has found that many past attackers had substantial negative experiences related to these contextual themes
Figure 11 lists the contextual themes: Stressors, Home Life, Mental Health, Criminal History, Interpersonal Difficulties, and Lack of Consequences.
Lack of Consequences
Figure 11 lists the behavioral themes: Concerning or Threatening Communications, Interest in Violent Topics, History of Violence, Stalking, Harassing, or Bullying, Extreme Beliefs, Fixations, Behavior Changes, Desperation or Despair, and Intense Anger or Aggression.
Intense Anger or Aggression
Why inferred Figure 11 omits Inconsistency and Planning and Final Acts, which pp.69-70 describe as behavioral themes (11 in total); the figure thus shows 18 themes against the 20 stated on p.67.
Figure 11 lists the summative themes: Motives, Elicited Concern in Others, and Access to Weapons.
Elicited Concern in Others
NTAC research on targeted violence found that motives for violence are multifaceted, and individuals often have multiple identifiable motivations at once.
NTAC's research on targeted violence has revealed that motives for violence are multifaceted, and individuals often have multiple identifiable motivations at once
Over 70 million workers in the U.S. have access to an EAP, according to 2021 Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
Over 70 million workers in the U.S. have access to an EAP, according to data published in 2021 from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Zero-tolerance policies have historically been used in organizations as an assurance of safety for employees against risk of harm or violence.
Zero-tolerance policies have historically been used in organizations as an assurance of safety for employees against risk of harm or violence.
Data published in 2023 by OSHA suggested healthcare workers were five times more likely to experience workplace violence than workers in other industries.
healthcare workers were five times more likely to experience workplace violence than workers in other industries
In 2022 there were 24,590 nonfatal injury cases among healthcare and social assistance workers due to workplace violence, a 22.6% increase from 2019, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
Sample (no n: a percentage change, not a share of a sample) · not a proportion of a sample
In 2022, there were 24,590 cases of nonfatal injuries among healthcare and social assistance workers due to workplace violence, a 22.6% increase in the number of cases from 2019 data
Organizations sometimes use checkboxes asking applicants to self-disclose prior felony criminal convictions and then use that data to filter out applicants with felony convictions.
Organizations sometimes use checkboxes to encourage applicants to self-disclose prior felony criminal convictions, then use the data to filter out applicants with felony convictions.
cite page 87 Step 7: Promote a Safe and Supportive Organizational Climate
NTAC's research examining incidents of targeted violence spans more than 25 years.
For over 25 years, NTAC's research examining incidents of targeted violence
Data Table 1 column headers give all attacks as n = 50 / 29%, current or former employees as n = 22 / 13%, customers, clients, patients, and visitors as n = 19 / 11%, and romantic partners and relatives as n = 9 / 5%.
Sample (n = 50 of 173) · mass attacks (2016-2020) in the NTAC 2023 population from which the 50 workplace incidents were drawn
| INCIDENT DATA | All Attacks<br>n = 50 / 29% | Current or Former Employees<br>n = 22 / 13% | Customers, Clients, Patients, and Visitors<br>n = 19 / 11% | Romantic Partners and Relatives<br>n = 9 / 5% |
Why inferred table header: the column headers are printed in the table; the <br> marks the line break inside each printed header cell and is not printed text
An asterisk on the Weapons, Location Types and Motives rows of Data Table 1 indicates multiple responses, so percentages within those sections can sum to more than 100%.
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
*Indicates multiple responses.
Data Table 1 reports firearms in 86% of all attacks (n = 50), 95% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 68% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 100% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Firearms | 86% | 95% | 68% | 100%
Data Table 1 reports bladed weapons in 14% of all attacks (n = 50), 0% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 37% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Bladed Weapons | 14% | 0% | 37% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports vehicles as a weapon in 2% of all attacks (n = 50), 5% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 0% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Vehicles | 2% | 5% | 0% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports an explosive weapon in 2% of all attacks (n = 50), 5% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 0% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Explosive | 2% | 5% | 0% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports an incendiary weapon in 2% of all attacks (n = 50), 5% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 0% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Incendiary | 2% | 5% | 0% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports an other weapon type in 2% of all attacks (n = 50), 5% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 0% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
| Incendiary | 2% | 5% | 0% | 0% | | Other | 2% | 5% | 0% | 0% |
Data Table 1 reports businesses as the location type in 86% of all attacks (n = 50), 95% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 74% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 89% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Businesses | 86% | 95% | 74% | 89%
Data Table 1 reports restaurants/bars (a business sub-type) as the location in 20% of all attacks (n = 50), 5% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 37% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 22% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Restaurants/Bars | 20% | 5% | 37% | 22%
Data Table 1 reports retail (a business sub-type) as the location in 6% of all attacks (n = 50), 9% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 0% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 11% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Retail | 6% | 9% | 0% | 11%
Data Table 1 reports services (a business sub-type) as the location in 22% of all attacks (n = 50), 23% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 21% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 22% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Services | 22% | 23% | 21% | 22%
Data Table 1 reports manufacturing/distribution (a business sub-type) as the location in 20% of all attacks (n = 50), 45% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 0% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Manufacturing/Distribution | 20% | 45% | 0% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports healthcare (a business sub-type) as the location in 14% of all attacks (n = 50), 9% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 16% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 22% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Healthcare | 14% | 9% | 16% | 22%
Data Table 1 reports government/military (a business sub-type) as the location in 6% of all attacks (n = 50), 9% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 0% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 11% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Government/Military | 6% | 9% | 0% | 11%
Data Table 1 reports government (a sub-row of government/military) as the location in 4% of all attacks (n = 50), 5% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 0% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 11% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Government | 4% | 5% | 0% | 11%
Data Table 1 reports military (a sub-row of government/military) as the location in 2% of all attacks (n = 50), 5% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 0% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Military | 2% | 5% | 0% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports a residential community as the location in 4% of all attacks (n = 50), 0% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 11% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Residential Community | 4% | 0% | 11% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports open space as the location in 8% of all attacks (n = 50), 9% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 5% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 11% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Open Space | 8% | 9% | 5% | 11%
Data Table 1 reports a school as the location in 2% of all attacks (n = 50), 0% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 0% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 11% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
School | 2% | 0% | 0% | 11%
Data Table 1 reports non-profit services as the location in 4% of all attacks (n = 50), 0% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 11% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Non-profit Services | 4% | 0% | 11% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports a grievance motive in 88% of all attacks (n = 50), 95% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 79% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 89% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Grievance | 88% | 95% | 79% | 89%
Data Table 1 reports a personal grievance (a sub-row of grievance) as a motive in 38% of all attacks (n = 50), 18% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 68% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 22% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Personal | 38% | 18% | 68% | 22%
Data Table 1 reports a workplace grievance (a sub-row of grievance) as a motive in 36% of all attacks (n = 50), 77% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 5% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Workplace | 36% | 77% | 5% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports a domestic grievance (a sub-row of grievance) as a motive in 22% of all attacks (n = 50), 14% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 5% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 78% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Domestic | 22% | 14% | 5% | 78%
Data Table 1 reports psychotic symptoms as a motive in 12% of all attacks (n = 50), 23% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 0% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 11% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Psychotic Symptoms | 12% | 23% | 0% | 11%
Data Table 1 reports ideology as a motive in 2% of all attacks (n = 50), 0% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 5% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Ideology | 2% | 0% | 5% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports fame or notoriety as a motive in 2% of all attacks (n = 50), 5% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 0% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Fame or Notoriety | 2% | 5% | 0% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports a desire to kill as a motive in 4% of all attacks (n = 50), 5% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 5% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Desire to kill | 4% | 5% | 5% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports an other motive in 2% of all attacks (n = 50), 5% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 0% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
| Other | 2% | 5% | 0% | 0% | | Undetermined | 6% | 0% | 16% | 0% |
Data Table 1 reports the motive as undetermined in 6% of all attacks (n = 50), 0% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 16% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Undetermined | 6% | 0% | 16% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports total casualties (injuries plus deaths) of 247 (4.94 average) for all attacks (n = 50), 125 (5.68 average) for current or former employees (n = 22), 92 (4.84 average) for customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 30 (3.33 average) for romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
**Total Casualties (Injuries + Deaths)** | 247 (4.94 avg) | 125 (5.68 avg) | 92 (4.84 avg) | 30 (3.33 avg)
Data Table 1 reports 128 people injured (2.56 average) in all attacks (n = 50), 63 (2.86 average) by current or former employees (n = 22), 57 (3.00 average) by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 8 (0.89 average) by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Injured | 128 (2.56 avg) | 63 (2.86 avg) | 57 (3.00 avg) | 8 (0.89 avg)
Data Table 1 reports 119 people killed (2.38 average) in all attacks (n = 50), 62 (2.82 average) by current or former employees (n = 22), 35 (1.84 average) by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 22 (2.44 average) by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Killed | 119 (2.38 avg) | 62 (2.82 avg) | 35 (1.84 avg) | 22 (2.44 avg)
Data Table 1 reports that attackers stopped on their own in 76% of all attacks (n = 50), 77% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 68% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 88% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Attackers stopped on their own, then... | 76% | 77% | 68% | 88%
Data Table 1 reports that the attacker stopped on their own and was then arrested at or away from the scene in 30% of all attacks (n = 50), 22% for current or former employees (n = 22), 37% for customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 35% for romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Arrested at/away from scene | 30% | 22% | 37% | 35%
Data Table 1 reports that the attacker stopped on their own and then committed suicide in 46% of all attacks (n = 50), 54% for current or former employees (n = 22), 31% for customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 54% for romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Committed suicide | 46% | 54% | 31% | 54%
Data Table 1 reports that law enforcement intervened in 18% of all attacks (n = 50), 23% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 15% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 12% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Law enforcement intervened, then... | 18% | 23% | 15% | 12%
Data Table 1 reports that law enforcement intervened and the attacker was then arrested at or away from the scene in 4% of all attacks (n = 50), 0% for current or former employees (n = 22), 10% for customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% for romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Arrested at/away from scene | 4% | 0% | 10% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports that law enforcement intervened and killed the attacker in 14% of all attacks (n = 50), 23% for current or former employees (n = 22), 5% for customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 12% for romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Killed by law enforcement | 14% | 23% | 5% | 12%
Data Table 1 reports that bystanders intervened in 4% of all attacks (n = 50), 0% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 11% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Bystanders intervened, then... | 4% | 0% | 11% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports that bystanders intervened and the attacker was then arrested at or away from the scene in 2% of all attacks (n = 50), 0% for current or former employees (n = 22), 6% for customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% for romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Arrested at/away from scene | 2% | 0% | 6% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports that bystanders intervened followed by an other outcome in 2% of all attacks (n = 50), 0% for current or former employees (n = 22), 6% for customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% for romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Other | 2% | 0% | 6% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports that the weapon was rendered inoperable in 2% of all attacks (n = 50), 0% of attacks by current or former employees (n = 22), 5% by customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% by romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Weapon rendered inoperable, then... | 2% | 0% | 5% | 0%
Data Table 1 reports that the weapon was rendered inoperable and the attacker was then arrested at or away from the scene in 2% of all attacks (n = 50), 0% for current or former employees (n = 22), 5% for customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 19), and 0% for romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 50 | 22 | 19 | 9 by column) · Data Table 1 columns: all attacks 50 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 19 | partners and relatives 9
Arrested at/away from scene | 2% | 0% | 5% | 0%
Data Table 2 column headers give all attackers as n = 51 / 28%, current or former employees as n = 22 / 12%, customers, clients, patients, and visitors as n = 20 / 11%, and romantic partners and relatives as n = 9 / 5%.
Sample (n = 51 of undeterminable) · attackers in the NTAC 2023 population of 173 mass attacks
| ATTACKER DATA | All Attackers<br>n = 51 / 28% | Current or Former Employees<br>n = 22 / 12% | Customers, Clients, Patients, and Visitors<br>n = 20 / 11% | Romantic Partners and Relatives<br>n = 9 / 5% |
Why inferred table header: the column headers are printed in the table; the <br> marks the line break inside each printed header cell and is not printed text
Data Table 2 reports that 96% of all attackers (n = 51) were male, as were 95% of current or former employees (n = 22), 95% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 100% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Male | 96% | 95% | 95% | 100%
Data Table 2 reports that 2% of all attackers (n = 51) were female, as were 0% of current or former employees (n = 22), 5% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 0% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Female | 2% | 0% | 5% | 0%
Data Table 2 reports an other gender for 2% of all attackers (n = 51), 5% of current or former employees (n = 22), 0% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 0% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Other | 2% | 5% | 0% | 0%
Data Table 2 gives an age range of 22-66 (41.0 average) for all attackers (n = 51), 22-64 (40.1 average) for current or former employees (n = 22), 23-66 (41.1 average) for customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 27-58 (42.9 average) for romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
**Age Range (average)** | 22-66 (41.0 avg) | 22-64 (40.1 avg) | 23-66 (41.1 avg) | 27-58 (42.9 avg)
Data Table 2 reports that 41% of all attackers (n = 51) were White (non-Hispanic/ethnicity unknown), as were 32% of current or former employees (n = 22), 55% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 33% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
White (non-Hispanic/ethnicity unknown) | 41% | 32% | 55% | 33%
Data Table 2 reports that 29% of all attackers (n = 51) were Black/African American, as were 50% of current or former employees (n = 22), 10% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 22% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Black/African American | 29% | 50% | 10% | 22%
Data Table 2 reports that 14% of all attackers (n = 51) were Hispanic/Latino, as were 9% of current or former employees (n = 22), 20% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 11% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Hispanic/Latino | 14% | 9% | 20% | 11%
Data Table 2 reports that 12% of all attackers (n = 51) were Asian, as were 9% of current or former employees (n = 22), 5% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 33% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Asian | 12% | 9% | 5% | 33%
Data Table 2 reports race/ethnicity as undetermined for 4% of all attackers (n = 51), 0% of current or former employees (n = 22), 10% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 0% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Undetermined | 4% | 0% | 10% | 0%
Data Table 2 reports a history of arrests/charges for 65% of all attackers (n = 51), 64% of current or former employees (n = 22), 70% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 56% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
**Arrests/Charges** | 65% | 64% | 70% | 56%
Data Table 2 reports arrests/charges for domestic violence for 18% of all attackers (n = 51), 9% of current or former employees (n = 22), 20% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 33% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Domestic Violence | 18% | 9% | 20% | 33%
Data Table 2 reports arrests/charges for sex crimes for 8% of all attackers (n = 51), 9% of current or former employees (n = 22), 10% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 0% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Sex Crimes | 8% | 9% | 10% | 0%
Data Table 2 reports arrests/charges for other violent crimes for 31% of all attackers (n = 51), 27% of current or former employees (n = 22), 35% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 33% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Other Violent Crimes | 31% | 27% | 35% | 33%
Data Table 2 reports arrests/charges for non-violent crimes for 57% of all attackers (n = 51), 55% of current or former employees (n = 22), 65% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 44% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Non-Violent Crimes | 57% | 55% | 65% | 44%
Data Table 2 reports a history of domestic violence for 53% of all attackers (n = 51), 41% of current or former employees (n = 22), 55% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 78% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
**History of Domestic Violence*** | 53% | 41% | 55% | 78%
Data Table 2 reports mental health symptoms for 59% of all attackers (n = 51), 64% of current or former employees (n = 22), 55% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 56% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
**Mental Health Symptoms** | 59% | 64% | 55% | 56%
Data Table 2 reports a known mental health treatment/diagnosis for 39% of all attackers (n = 51), 36% of current or former employees (n = 22), 45% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 33% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Known Treatment/Diagnosis | 39% | 36% | 45% | 33%
Data Table 2 reports psychosis for 29% of all attackers (n = 51), 41% of current or former employees (n = 22), 20% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 22% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Psychosis | 29% | 41% | 20% | 22%
Data Table 2 reports paranoia (a sub-row of psychosis) for 22% of all attackers (n = 51), 41% of current or former employees (n = 22), 5% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 11% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Paranoia | 22% | 41% | 5% | 11%
Data Table 2 reports delusions (a sub-row of psychosis) for 12% of all attackers (n = 51), 23% of current or former employees (n = 22), 0% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 11% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Delusions | 12% | 23% | 0% | 11%
Data Table 2 reports hallucinations (a sub-row of psychosis) for 10% of all attackers (n = 51), 18% of current or former employees (n = 22), 0% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 11% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Hallucinations | 10% | 18% | 0% | 11%
Data Table 2 reports depression for 29% of all attackers (n = 51), 32% of current or former employees (n = 22), 20% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 44% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Depression | 29% | 32% | 20% | 44%
Data Table 2 reports suicidal ideations/attempts for 18% of all attackers (n = 51), 14% of current or former employees (n = 22), 15% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 33% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Suicidal Ideations/Attempts | 18% | 14% | 15% | 33%
Data Table 2 reports stressors within 5 years of the attack for 92% of all attackers (n = 51), 91% of current or former employees (n = 22), 95% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 89% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
**Stressors (within 5 years of attack)** | 92% | 91% | 95% | 89%
Data Table 2 reports a triggering event for 43% of all attackers (n = 51), 32% of current or former employees (n = 22), 60% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 33% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Triggering Event | 43% | 32% | 60% | 33%
Data Table 2 reports financial instability for 55% of all attackers (n = 51), 59% of current or former employees (n = 22), 55% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 44% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Financial Instability | 55% | 59% | 55% | 44%
Data Table 2 reports personal stressors for 47% of all attackers (n = 51), 50% of current or former employees (n = 22), 45% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 44% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Personal Stressors | 47% | 50% | 45% | 44%
Data Table 2 reports romantic stressors for 39% of all attackers (n = 51), 26% of current or former employees (n = 22), 25% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 78% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Romantic Stressors | 39% | 26% | 25% | 78%
Data Table 2 reports employment stressors for 45% of all attackers (n = 51), 73% of current or former employees (n = 22), 15% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 44% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Employment Stressors | 45% | 73% | 15% | 44%
Data Table 2 reports concerning communications by 75% of all attackers (n = 51), 77% of current or former employees (n = 22), 65% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 89% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
**Concerning Communications** | 75% | 77% | 65% | 89%
Data Table 2 reports a history of making threats for 47% of all attackers (n = 51), 41% of current or former employees (n = 22), 40% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 78% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
History of Making Threats | 47% | 41% | 40% | 78%
Data Table 2 reports a threat specific to the target by 31% of all attackers (n = 51), 32% of current or former employees (n = 22), 25% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 56% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Threat Specific to the Target | 31% | 32% | 25% | 56%
Data Table 2 reports communications indicating imminence of attack by 8% of all attackers (n = 51), 5% of current or former employees (n = 22), 5% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 11% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Indicating Imminence of Attack | 8% | 5% | 5% | 11%
Data Table 2 reports that 78% of all attackers (n = 51) elicited concern, as did 82% of current or former employees (n = 22), 75% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 78% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
**Elicited Concern** | 78% | 82% | 75% | 78%
Data Table 2 reports that 24% of all attackers (n = 51) elicited concern at work, as did 41% of current or former employees (n = 22), 10% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 11% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Elicited Concern at Work | 24% | 41% | 10% | 11%
Data Table 2 reports that 61% of all attackers (n = 51) elicited concern for safety, as did 41% of current or former employees (n = 22), 75% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 78% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Elicited Concern for Safety | 61% | 41% | 75% | 78%
Data Table 2 reports that 18% of all attackers (n = 51) were victims of bullying/harassment, as were 36% of current or former employees (n = 22), 5% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 0% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Victim of | 18% | 36% | 5% | 0%
Data Table 2 reports that 47% of all attackers (n = 51) were perpetrators of bullying/harassment, as were 41% of current or former employees (n = 22), 40% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 78% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
Perpetrator of | 47% | 41% | 40% | 78%
Data Table 2 reports an inappropriate interest in violence or weapons for 10% of all attackers (n = 51), 9% of current or former employees (n = 22), 10% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 11% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
**Inappropriate Interest in Violence or Weapons** | 10% | 9% | 10% | 11%
Data Table 2 reports a behavior change for 41% of all attackers (n = 51), 55% of current or former employees (n = 22), 25% of customers, clients, patients, and visitors (n = 20), and 44% of romantic partners and relatives (n = 9).
Sample (N = 51 | 22 | 20 | 9 by column) · Data Table 2 columns: all attackers 51 | employees 22 | customers, clients, patients, visitors 20 | partners and relatives 9
**Behavior Change** | 41% | 55% | 25% | 44%
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