Kansas Gun Violence Statistics & Prevention
How can we measure the impact of gun violence in Kansas, and what can employers and facility managers realistically do to keep their people safe?
At Omnilert, we specialize in AI security software and emergency notification systems. We work with organizations all across Kansas to help solve for the worst case security scenarios – especially active shooter events.
Here, we provide objective information about Kansas gun violence statistics and offer our insight on the limitations of traditional security systems for preventing casualty events. We’ll also look at how our own AI security technology can help keep people safer.
Where Does Kansas Rank in Gun Violence?
The CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics conducts an annual survey of firearm mortality by state. So where does Kansas rank for gun violence amongst all fifty states?
Gun Related Deaths: #31
492 fatalities in 2022, ranking them number 31 of 50.
Population-Based Death Rate: #20
16.8 gun-related deaths per 100,000 people.
Most Dangerous Cities in Kansas
- Topeka, KS
- Kansas City, KS
- Wichita, KS
- Olathe, KS
Significant Mass Shooting Events in Kansas’ Recent History
Kansas has experienced several tragic mass casualty events that underscore the real-world consequences of gun violence. A mass shooting event, as defined by the Gun Violence Archive, describes an incident in which four or more people are injured by a firearm in one location around the same time.
These incidents, now part of Kansas’ difficult history, remind us of what’s at stake when it comes to workplace and community safety.
Fordyce Grocery Store Shooting (2024)
A man opened fire at the Mad Butcher Grocery Store, killing 4 and injuring 9 others including police.
Kansas City Parade Shooting (2024)
A gunman opened fire into Union Station during a celebration of the Kansas City Chiefs winning the super bowl, resulting in 1 death and 20 severe injuries.
Little Rock Nightclub Shooting (2017)
Twenty-eight people were injured during a shooting at a nightclub in Little Rock.
Kansas’ Approach to Limiting Gun Violence
Kansas gun legislation takes a different approach compared to other states, focusing primarily on expanding gun rights rather than implementing additional restrictions. The state has some of the most permissive gun laws in the nation.
Key aspects of gun laws in Kansas:
- Constitutional carry (no permit required for concealed or open carry for qualified individuals)
- Domestic violence prohibitions for those subject to protective orders
- Limited background check requirements only for federally licensed dealer sales
- Prohibition on certain types of ammunition like plastic-coated handgun rounds
- Enhanced penalties for gun crimes in some circumstances
- Some restrictions on carrying firearms in secure government buildings with metal detectors
While these approaches can and do have an impact on curbing gun violence in Kansas, they are typically more reactive than preventative.
Why Kansas Needs Help Why Kansas Facilities Need Better Security Solutions to Prevent Gun Violence
Traditional security approaches in Kansas face significant challenges due to the state’s permissive gun laws and the prevalence of firearms in public spaces. Most security systems today weren’t designed to handle environments where armed individuals might be legally present until they’re not.
Limitations of traditional security systems for shooter prevention:
- Surveillance cameras only help with investigations after incidents occur
- Gunshot detection waits until someone’s already shooting
- Manual monitoring fails because humans can’t watch dozens of feeds effectively
- Emergency response protocols depend on someone being available to activate them
In other words, by the time traditional systems kick in, it’s often too late.
How Omnilert Can Help Using Military-Grade AI Technology to Detect Firearms Before Shots are Fired
When seconds matter most, AI visual gun detection can identify firearms before shots are fired. Military-grade technology like Omnilert’s can integrate with your existing cameras to protect your facility and enact an automated emergency response if a threat is detected.
By themselves, security cameras can’t prevent what they can’t predict. Omnilert brings gun detection technology to Kansas facilities to transform your existing surveillance into an active threat prevention system. Instead of documenting incidents after they happen, AI-powered visual detection spots firearms the moment they appear and triggers immediate response protocols.
Benefits of Omnilert Activating a Full-Scale Emergency Response to Active Shooters
When an active threat is confirmed at your Kansas facility, immediate and comprehensive emergency response becomes critical. Facilities using Omnilert deploy an automated response across multiple technologies to help protect as many lives as possible.
Instant Notifications
Multi-channel emergency notifications instantly alert staff, security, and law enforcement.
Automated Response
Automated response workflows that trigger lockdown procedures, activate alarms, and more.
Mobile Alerts
Mobile applications that keep staff informed and connected during emergencies.
Alarm Activation
Use audio and video systems to sound alarms and deliver clear safety instructions.
Access Control
Lock or unlock doors to contain threats, secure exits, and protect vulnerable areas.
Custom Response
Engage a fully-custom response using your existing security technology.
Law Enforcement
Notify local police of an active threat or verified security incident.
Liability Protection
Omnilert’s DHS SAFETY Act designation offers liability protection.
Protecting Spaces Everywhere What Types of Kansas Industries Are Vulnerable to Gun Violence?
Our security platform serves Kansas organizations across many sectors. Companies implementing AI gun detection appreciate our ability to integrate with existing technologies while adapting to each facility’s unique security challenges and legal requirements.
From manufacturing plants like Excel Industries to educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and government buildings, the need remains consistent: early threat detection that works within Kansas’s legal framework.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Common Questions About Kansas Gun Violence Statistics
How many gun-related deaths occur in Kansas each year?
On Average, Kansas reports approximately 400–500 gun-related deaths annually, with firearm suicides making up the majority. The rate of gun deaths in Kansas is slightly above the national average.
Is gun violence a growing issue in Kansas?
While Kansas doesn’t face the same volume of firearm homicides as larger states, gun-related deaths—particularly suicides—have been steadily rising. Rural areas are seeing especially concerning trends in firearm suicide rates.
What types of gun violence are most common in Kansas?
Firearm suicide is the most prevalent form of gun violence in Kansas, accounting for over 70% of gun-related deaths. Homicides and accidental shootings make up a smaller but still significant portion.
Which cities or regions in Kansas report the most gun violence?
Urban areas like Wichita, Kansas City (KS), and Topeka see higher levels of gun-related crime. However, many rural counties also report elevated firearm suicide rates.
How does Kansas compare to other states in gun violence statistics?
Kansas falls into the mid-to-high range nationally for gun-related deaths per capita. While homicide rates are moderate, its suicide rate with firearms pushes its overall numbers higher.
What are Kansas’s current gun laws?
Kansas is a permitless carry state, meaning residents can carry firearms without a license. The state does not require background checks for private gun sales and has limited firearm restrictions overall.
Are there any gun violence prevention efforts in Kansas?
Yes, local mental health initiatives and nonprofit organizations work to prevent suicide and improve firearm safety. However, state-wide coordinated efforts are less robust compared to other states.
Sources
- https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/state-stats/deaths/firearms.html
- https://www.gunviolencearchive.org/explainer
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2024_Fordyce_shooting
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2024_Kansas_City_parade_shooting
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Little_Rock_nightclub_shooting
- https://everytownresearch.org/rankings/state/kansas/
- https://everytownresearch.org/report/city-data/
