Campus Shootings: Quantifying Incidents in American Education Institutions

In the ongoing debate about gun control in the United States, the issue of gun policies on college campuses has gained significant attention. According to recent data, at least 16 states allow colleges to decide whether to allow guns on campus, while another 12 states generally permit guns on campus with some regulations, unless the college specifically prohibits it.

A survey conducted by BestColleges revealed that the concern for student safety on campus is a real issue. 65% of students expressed worry over school shootings, and a majority (63%) felt that stricter gun laws would make them feel safer. This sentiment was reflected in the 2024 presidential election, where gun policy and control were among the top voting issues for college students.

However, the impact of these policies on campus safety remains a topic of discussion. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have found that policies allowing guns on campus do not reduce the occurrence of mass shootings. Instead, they suggest that gun access "substantially increases" the risk of suicide among young adults.

Unfortunately, the data shows that gunfire on college campuses is not an uncommon occurrence. From 2013 to 2025, there were 418 instances of gunfire in 44 states and Washington D.C., resulting in a total of 114 deaths and 312 injuries. Non-mass shooting intentional attacks accounted for 81 deaths and 192 injuries, while unintentional gunfire resulted in three deaths and 36 injuries.

It's worth noting that there have been no relevant or direct search results identifying colleagues involved in mass murders at U.S. colleges between 1966 and 2023. However, ten people have died by suicide in non-mass shootings on college campuses, with three others injured.

The situation in Montana provides an interesting case study. In 2021, Montana prohibited colleges from banning guns on campus. However, in 2022, the Montana Supreme Court decided the law was unconstitutional, allowing Montana schools to decide their own gun policies.

As the debate continues, it's clear that the issue of gun policies on college campuses is complex and multifaceted. While some argue for the right to self-defense, others emphasise the potential risks and the need for stricter regulations. As we move forward, it's essential to continue the conversation and strive for policies that prioritise the safety and well-being of students.