Report of Mass Attacks in the U.S. 2019-Benjamin Martin

When examining Mass Attacks in Public Places (MAPS), various motives were identified as precursors to the incidents. For example, analyses identified mental health, ideological views, racial biases, sex and age influences, employment background, substance use and abuse, criminality, social media influences, and finances.

Mental Health: In seven (21%) of incidents, perpetrators motives were related to symptoms deriving from various mental illnesses. Common symptoms reported were psychosis: hallucinations, paranoia, and delusions (30%). Such symptoms are common amongst those suffering from schizophrenia; and, can give way to hostility resulting in aggression and violent behavior[10]. The stigma associated with the unpredictable aggression and impulsivity renders insufficient treatment outcomes and motivates those suffering from the disorder to self-medicate (substance abuse). Next most prevalent was depression, which approximately ? of attackers displayed. Those experiencing depression can have short-term reactions, such as loss of sleep, irritability, and anxiety. These outcomes have detrimental effects on the brain; specifically, the prefrontal cortex. Sleep deprivation, irritation, and anxiety increase [di]stress levels and reduce the ability of the prefrontal cortex to engage logic and critical thinking[13]. This can ultimately lead to rash decisions that a person would not make under normal circumstances. Five (5) attackers had a history of suicide ideation (14%). Attackers with this mindset attempt to create a situation where they experience “suicide by cop”. Comorbidity of symptoms affected some perpetrators as well. Studies determined one perpetrator displayed paranoid delusions which included diagnoses of depression, thoughts of suicide and assaults; which compounded the motivation for the attack. Although mental health contributions reduced significantly over the last two years, it was still reported as a contributing factor by nearly 1/3 of the attackers. Keeping in mind that about 21% of mass murders are conducted by people with severe mental illness - that's important but it also means that 78% of mass murders are committed by people without such an illness. And, serious mental illness is responsible for only 4% of all gun violence, which is the same as the percentage of the general population. Therefore, except in cases of mass shootings, there is NO statistical relationship between serious mental illness and gun violence[6]. Bolstering screening processes for firearms purchases, eradicating the ability to construct “ghost guns” via internet purchases, and comprehensive mental health support services are crucial to eliminating mass attacks perpetrated by those in the throws of mental illness.

 Grievances: 11 (32%) of attackers were retaliating for perceived wrongdoing related to specific issues and/or relationships in their lives. The types of grievances were varied and frequently related to a personal factor; including ongoing feuds with others in the community, being kicked out of retail stores, bullying, debt, lack of job prospects/losing employment, and domestic issues. Grievances happen when our expectations are not met. They can be psychological, financial, or social expectations. And, some seek out their own revenge or justice in the form of violence[6]. The threshold for intervention needs to be closer in proximity (both time and relationships) to identify grievances before the escalation reaches a point to where people should be concerned for their safety. For example, quicker action by the judicial system as well as motivating feelings of community and belongingness that cannot be achieved through social media. Providing people with an open forum for safe and healthy dialogue could reduce the likelihood that such grievances will be a major influence on mass attacks in the future.

Ideological/Racial Bias: Seven (21%) attacks were motivated by ideology or bigotry. Perpetrators have attacked children, diverse groups, police, and soldiers. A little less than half of the perpetrators were also diagnosed with a mental disorder. Nine (9) attackers either openly idolized or researched previous offenses/offenders. Ideological motivations can vary from religious, to political, to social making it difficult to be proactive in identifying potential attackers. However, close monitoring can help authorities and the community identify the targeted groups and prepare them to act appropriately when a mass attack occurs. Such preparation can include, but is not limited to, “live” and “soft” exercises, use of mass notifications systems (e.g. IPAWS, wireless emergency alerts, and emergency alert systems). Authorities, emergency preparedness professionals, and media outlets should use platforms that do not require subscriptions so as to reach as much of the targeted population as possible[4].

Demographics: Truth is, attackers are perpetrating incidents much earlier in life. In 2017, most attackers were in the 45-54 age range, 25-34 in 2018, and 15-24 in 20191. This may be attributed to the unpredictable transition of puberty. That is, attackers are less likely to have certain attachments affording the guidance to deter them from aggressive actions (Hesse, 2020). Eleven (32%) of perpetrators were employed at the time of their attack and another eleven were unemployed. Recent job loss, or the threat of unemployment, seems to be more of a contributing factor than financial burden itself. Perhaps secure employment is a mediating factor for the effect of financial burden on the likelihood to commit mass attacks. Further, the longer someone is unemployed the more they will likely expect to experience some financial burden. Thus, habituating to the financial stressor. Such results are consistent with previous studies throughout the years[1].

Substance use/abuse: Nearly half of the attackers (n = 17, 46%) had a history of using illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine, LSD, Ecstasy) or misusing prescription medications (e.g., Xanax, Adderall, Vyvanse). 15 of those admitting substance use/abuse (88%), may have reached the level of abuse causing negative consequences in their lives, including criminal charges, academic failures, court-ordered treatment, and eviction. One of the attackers later claimed to have no memory of his attack, alleging he had been drinking heavily at the time and had blacked out. In this sample of attackers, a significant relationship was observed between substance abuse and domestic violence. Ten attackers, over half of those admitting substance use, had histories of domestic violence. This indicates substance use can be a predictor of domestic violence which, in turn, is a predictor of a propensity to engage in MAPS incidents. Furthermore, research over the last two decades suggests a positive correlation between MAPS and domestic violence[3,8,7]. Again, the solution is to get the perpetrator help or begin the criminal cycle quickly. In both instances, the process will reduce access to a firearm.

Criminal history: Half of the perpetrators (19) previously faced criminal charges; ranging from minor traffic violations drugs, evading arrest, and reckless driving. Just under half (46%) of the attackers had a documented history of violence toward others. However, few of them actually faced criminal charges. Further investigation reveals in many cases law enforcement was contacted, but the authorities failed to make an arrest, follow-up on the incident, or help the person in question get mental health/ psychological assistance. Thirty-five percent of attackers had a history of domestic violence, but just roughly half of them were formally charged. Considering data over the last three years, data shows domestic violence is on the rise for this type (MAPS) of attacker. Interestingly, there was a 5% increase seen from 2018-19 after a 2% reduction between 2017-2018. Further investigation is merited; to determine factors for the significant increase in domestic violence incidents. Eleven (30%) of the perpetrators were involved in Part 1 crimes (robbery, burglary, sexual abuse forcible rape, and aggravated assault). One (1) attacker had multiple arrest for Part 1 crimes (different incidents/cases). Law enforcement contacted one individual several times (approximately 24 occasions) approximately over 270-day period but did not document encounter with resident regarding gun shoots coming from resident address. In two cases regarding individuals who committed MAPS, local agency (law enforcement) did not conduct any investigation nor reached out for information regarding possible acts of violence against others. One perpetrator committed “suicide by cop” by holding other individuals against their own will.

Social media influences: Popularity and accessibility of the internet has motivated many people to share their own ideology regarding a variety of topics, and how to act upon them. Image board (e.g. 4chan, 8chan, 8kun, Enchan) websites that promote radical rhetoric is a common platform for perpetrators of MAPS to post manifestos, soliloquies, and garner support for their violent fantasies. The fine line between Proactive Policing2 and practicing “free speech” makes it difficult to act upon posts depicting violence. Authorities could take a similar approach to mental health professionals by acting upon those who demonstrate a “plan”. Much like those demonstrating suicide ideation, law enforcement and other professionals could classify such statements at potentially harmful to oneself or others and initiate wellness checks. Wellness checks may be more effective than criminal investigations as they are aimed at connecting people with resources to improve their quality of life, thus, people are more likely to cooperate with law enforcement. During investigation of two (2) MAPS incidents, both perpetrators were influenced by 8chan, specifically by methodology and literature of attack on New Zealand mosque in March of 2019. Another significant event took place in August 2019, when a male attacker (21) drove to a heavily populated Hispanic community retail store ten miles away from his home. Before he began his assault on the public, he published his manifesto; which indicated political and economic issues that encouraged him to carry out a MAPS incident. When examining such criminal elements, social process theory indicates that criminal behavior is learned through interactions with others who share same ideological interest; social media makes it easier to form such connections[12]. Consequences such as expulsion from school and termination of employment are not effective, because they cease monitoring and cut off access to support services that could act as a moderator between early intervention and MAPS incidents.

Financial factors: Imagine fighting seizure or foreclosure of personal property due to financial instability. Unfortunately, many of these “quality of life stressors” linger for years. In relation to MAPS, 54% of attackers are financial unstable which studies indicate attackers had approximately five (5) years of insufficient financial history prior their attacks. One attacker had land seized in 2019, fortunately, the new owners allowed him to stay on property (in his van and a small shed behind their plumbing company). Stipulation was to maintain sanitation of the land. The owners would bring him food and water daily, he sold scrap metal, water heaters and other recyclable items. Eventually the land became filled with junk vehicles, barrels, and other types of rubbish. The owners subsequently asked him to remove the items, when the request was not fulfilled, he was evicted. Forty-eight hours prior to his attack he was served by local Sheriff’s Department. The attacker engaged in shootout with off duty officer, which he was able to steal one of the victim’s vehicle. He then shot three (3) employees of the plumbing company, stole one of their vehicles, and committed suicide approximately a mile away as local law enforcement closed in. Regrettably, this is not an isolated incident as a man who felt wronged by the effects of local rezoning laws on his business transformed an excavator into a veritable “killdozer”; using it to level property that people were still occupying[11]. Empathy regarding undesirable financial and housing situations may lead to explanations regarding decisions, thus prompting community members to help where needed. Actions such as these build community and belongingness; people who feel attached to their community do not destroy it or the people in it. As with other precursors, early intervention is crucial as those with a history of negative home life factors constituted 24% of the attackers, but nearly double (41%) were currently experiencing a negative home environment[1].

Weapons and Locations: Most of the attacks (71%) involved the use of a firearm. Bladed weapons, vehicles, and blunt objects combined to make up roughly the other 30%. Even fewer (3) attacks used a combination of weapons. Blunt objects were not identified as weapons until 2019 data. This suggests those wishing to commit MAPS incidents are becoming more creative and innovative to avoid detection before the incident. Using firearms necessitates planning, again making early intervention even more urgent. More oversight for firearms regulations are warranted as well, given handguns are easier to obtain and conceal than long guns.

The 34 attacks occurred in 21 states. Of these, 59% (n = 20) took place at public sites that are freely accessible to the general population, including sidewalks, restaurants, retail stores, and a gas station. The remaining 41% (n = 14) were carried out at semi-public sites, including workplaces, schools, houses of worship, and military bases. The locations of attacks in 2019, both public and semi-public, represent a variety of key sectors in our communities, including education, business, government, and religion. The 34 incidents impacted 36 public sites, as two attacks were carried out at multiple locations. 8 The type of locations most frequently impacted were places of business/service (n = 15, 44%) and open spaces (n = 11, 32%). The remaining locations included three educational institutions (9%), including a high school, a K-12 public charter school, and a university; two houses of worship (6%); two military bases (6%); two residential complexes (6%) 9; and one bus (3%).

Time and Date: MAPS occurred on at least one of each weekday and month throughout 2019. However, October was the most active months for MAPS, while Tuesdays and Thursdays were the most likely days of the week for the incidents to occur. Further inquiry is merited to determine the reason for the spike in October as well as Tuesdays and Thursdays. Currently, no research exists to provide a theory or reasoning the increase of attacks in this month and days of the week. Durations of events significantly decreased from 2017-2018. However, in 2019, they spiked to a duration longer than reported in 2017. This anomaly may be a direct effect of the increasingly younger age of perpetrators as younger individuals have more stamina than their older counterparts. Additionally, given the significant impact of social media, younger attackers are more likely to be malleable to indoctrination and be more determined to initiate death and destruction.

Statement of Problem: The problem is like Active Shooter Response; we don’t have a clear profile of a person likely to commit a MAPS incident. Except, for they are most likely to be male (92%). Attackers come from many racial, ethnic, and financial backgrounds. They target places of worship, educational institutions, open public, retail stores, and restaurants. However, we know what one does not look like. That is, what type of person would be very unlikely to commit a MAPS incident. Research suggests those exhibiting high levels of certain humanistic characteristics are more likely to engage in behavior that improves the well-being and quality of life for those around them[5]. In short, they don’t attack others. Teaching and motivating each other to display self-control, engage in empathy, trust each other, and be courageous is part of the solution.

Self-Control is the ability to override impulse. When we feel wronged or slighted, our first instinct is to seek out revenge. That does not make us bad people, it is natural (Price-APA, 2009). A high locus of control allows us to mitigate those feelings of vengeance and seek an amicable solution; whether it be discussion, removing ourselves from the situation, or notifying someone in authority8. Therefore, developing self-control in ourselves and others reduces the likelihood of engaging in a MAPS incident because we use our logic and critical thinking skills-instead of acting on impulse to seek retribution.

Empathy is perspective taking[8]. It is very different than sympathy as it is free of judgement and justification. Promoting and engaging in empathy increases the likelihood that we will understand another’s point of view. Why is understanding another, or even competing, point of view important? It may help us understand the reasons behind a decision that has us feeling wronged or slighted. We still may not agree with the outcome, we are able to create common ground and a human connection based on understanding. And, when we feel a human connection with others, we are much less likely to hurt them.

Building and sustaining trust is vital for engaging in empathy. When we trust each other, we are more likely to be vulnerable enough to empathize with each other. Empathy requires a certain vulnerability, because it requires acknowledgement of intrapersonal feelings, that only a trusting mindset can provide[9]. Finally, trust and empathy combine to produce courage. Specifically, for us, courage to “do the right thing”. Doing the right thing, regarding MAPS incidents, requires early interventions. Consequently, we need courage to try uncomfortable and untested interventions aimed at stopping MAPS incidents. While training and education regarding responses to such events are important, it is only one side of the coin; we are basically giving up and admitting these events will happen no matter what we do. We also need a proactive approach. Finding ways to indirectly integrate character strength (self-control, empathy, trust, courage) education is one piece of this puzzled solution. The good news is MAPS incidents are not a phenomenon (a mystery), it is more like a puzzle. Character strength building, early interventions, etc. are pieces of the “solution puzzle”.

REFERENCES

1.      Alathari, L. (2020). Mass Attacks in Public Spaces Annual Report.

2.      Ankony, R. C. & Kelley, T. M. (1999). The impact of perceived alienation on police officers’ sense of mastery and subsequent motivation for proactive enforcement. Policing: An International Journal, 22 (2).

3.      Babcock, J. C., Green, C. E., & Robie, C. (2004). Does batterers’ treatment work? A meta-analytic review of domestic violence treatment. Clinical Psychology Review, 23, 1023-1053.

4.      Federal Emergency Management Administration (2020), Integrated Public Alert & Warning System Education. https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/integrated-public-alert-warning-system.

5.      Geller (2019). Humanistic Behaviorism: The essence of effective behavior-based safety. Industrial Safety and Hygiene News, October 2019.

6.      Gill, P., Silver, J., Horgan, J., Corner, E. (2017). Shooting Alone: The Pre-Attack Experiences and Behaviors of U.S. Solo Mass Shooters. Journal of Forensic Sciences, 62 (3), 710-714.

7.      Giroux, H. A. (2003). Public spaces, private lives: Democracy Beyond 9/11.

8.      Martin (2019). Behind the Curtain.

9.      Papadopoulos, D. (2018). Trust is the New Empathy. https://qz.com/1205045/trust-is-the-new-empathy/. Retrieved: August 11, 2020.

10.  Pompili, Maurizio, and Andrea Fiorillo. "Aggression and impulsivity in Schizophrenia." Psychiatric Times, vol. 32, no. 7, July 2015, p. 12. Gale Academic OneFile, Accessed 13 Aug. 2020.

11.  Rechtshaffen, M. (2020). Review: Added Flourishes Detract from ‘Tread”, the true story of a 2004 bulldozer rampage. Los Angeles Times.

12.  Schmalleger, F. & Worrall, J. L. (2010). Policing Today. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall.

13.  Yang, H. Durocher, J. J., Larson, R. A., DellaValla, J. P., Carter, J. R. (2015). Total Sleep Depravation Alters Reactivity to Acute Stressors in Humans. Journal of Applied Physiology, vol. 113, no. 6.