Rural New York Counties Face Spike in Gun Violence at Start of Deer Hunting Season

A recent study has uncovered a concerning pattern in rural New York and across similar regions: gun violence surges significantly at the beginning of deer hunting season. Research led by Patrick Sharkey from Princeton University highlights a troubling 49% increase in firearm-related injuries and deaths during the first week of the hunting season compared to the week before. This spike persists even after excluding rare hunting accidents from the analysis.

Link Between Firearm Availability and Violence

Published on August 14 in JAMA Network Open, the study examined gun violence data from 854 rural counties in 44 states, including New York. Researchers observed that the increased presence of loaded firearms during deer hunting season contributes to a higher risk of gun violence. While hunting accidents are uncommon, the broader availability of guns during this time correlates strongly with a rise in violent incidents.

What the Data Reveals

The research tracked firearm-related incidents in the weeks surrounding each county’s deer hunting season. The data shows a 49% increase in shootings during the first week of the season, which declines to almost zero by the third week. This trend is consistent with the pattern seen in New York, where a significant number of deer are harvested early in the season.

Implications and Recommendations

To address this issue, the study suggests that enhanced firearm regulations, including better rules for storage and carrying, could help reduce the risk of violence. For those in rural New York, it’s crucial to understand that greater access to firearms during hunting season can lead to increased violence. Advocating for stricter firearm safety measures may be a vital step in protecting your community as the hunting season approaches.