ZeroEyes, the creators of the only AI-based gun detection video analytics platform that holds the full U.S. Department of Homeland Security SAFETY Act Designation, announced that its Gun Violence Research Center has released its Holiday Gun Incidents in Retail Facilities Report, identifying a disturbing trend involving gun-related violence in US retail locations.
The research shows that, during the 2022 and 2023 holiday seasons, from Black Friday to New Year’s Eve, retail settings including malls, grocery stores, convenience stores, and gas stations experienced a large spike in gun-related incidents, with an average of five per day, resulting in significant injuries and fatalities.
Gun Violence Research Center
The Gun Violence Research Center is a resource on gun violence in the United States of America, including active shooter and mass shooting incidents, spontaneous and targeted gun violence, as well as threats, hoaxes, and swatting.
Its new findings reveal that the gun-related incidents recorded over the 2022 and 2023 holiday seasons resulted in 83 fatalities and 140 injuries.
Gun-related incidents
64% of incidents took place outside of retail facilities, in parking lots and entryways
Incidents ranged from dispute escalations - by far the most common cause, making up nearly 40% of cases - to robberies and drive-by shootings.
Notably, 64% of incidents took place outside of retail facilities, in parking lots and entryways, and almost 55% of shooters fled the scene and were never apprehended.
Financial impact
Gun violence in retail settings carries long-lasting economic and social impacts beyond the immediate physical dangers. While the primary focus is correctly centered on preventing violence and saving lives, these tragic events also have a significant financial impact on businesses.
Retailers face property damage, reduced foot traffic, and increased employee turnover as both customers and staff feel unsafe.
ROI model
The financial strain can even force permanent closures, impacting entire communities
The ZeroEyes Research Center, in collaboration with analyst firm Gartner, has developed an ROI model that quantifies these effects, which include higher insurance premiums and potential legal costs.
In severe cases, the financial strain can even force permanent closures, impacting entire communities and deterring new businesses from entering affected areas.
Enhancing security measures
“The rising rate of gun-related incidents in shopping areas and retail facilities is an alarming trend that requires immediate action,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and Co-Founder of ZeroEyes.
He adds, “Retailers and law enforcement must collaborate to enhance security measures, especially during this peak shopping period when crowds increase and safety concerns are amplified.”
