An Exploratory Analysis of the Situational Contexts That Influence On-Duty Police Fatal Shootings

Examining the diverse scenarios and situations underlying fatal shootings by on-duty officers charged with murder and manslaughter is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies and policy recommendations. Previous studies focus on victim characteristics but often overlook motivations and situational contexts. To address this gap, this study uses data from the Henry A. Wallace Police Crime Database to examine situational contexts of on-duty fatal shootings. Specifically, we explore how the nature of the encounter, environment, weapons and bodycam presence, and officers’ perceptions influence these events. By analyzing these factors, we aim to understand the underlying causes of fatal shootings. Poster presented at the Annual Meeting of the Midwestern Criminal Justice Association in Chicago, IL, on September 26, 2024.