Youth Homicide Deaths in Rhode Island, 2004–2012

摘要

Youth homicide is a substantial public health problem in the United States, and has had a devastating effect on individu- als, families, and communities. 1-3 In 2008, homicide was the second leading cause of death for persons aged 15–24 years based on data from 16 states that participate in the CDC Na- tional Violent Death Reporting System. 3 During 2004-2012, homicide was the leading cause of violent deaths including homicides, suicides, legal intervention deaths, unintention- al firearm deaths, and deaths of undetermined intent among those <25 years of age in Rhode Island. Over one-third (39%) of the 284 homicides during that time period were among children and youth aged 0-24 years. Youth homicide can be prevented through a strategic public health based approach. 1 It is critical to increase awareness among the general public, public health officials, health care professionals, social ser- vice providers, and policy makers. This study provides the best available data on youth homicide from the Rhode Island Violent Death Reporting System to help better understand the pattern of youth homicide and, ultimately, reduce these untimely deaths.