Illinois Gun Violence Statistics & Prevention
How can we measure the impact of gun violence in Illinois, 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 throughout the Prairie State to help address the most serious security scenarios – particularly active shooter incidents.
Here, we provide objective information about Illinois gun violence statistics and offer our insight on the limitations of traditional security systems for preventing casualty events. We’ll also examine how our AI security technology can help keep people safer across Illinois communities.
Where Does Illinois Rank in Gun Violence?
The CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics conducts an annual survey of firearm mortality by state. So where does Illinois rank for gun violence amongst all fifty states?
Gun Related Deaths: #8
1,798 fatalities in 2022, ranking them number 8 of 50.
Population-Based Death Rate: #31
14.4 gun-related deaths per 100,000 people.
Top 5 Most Dangerous Cities in Illinois
- Chicago, IL
- Peoria, IL
- Rockford, IL
- Springfield, IL
- Decator, IL
Top 5 Safest Cities in Illinois
- Naperville, IL
- Joliet, IL
- Arlington Heights, IL
- Aurora, IL
- Elgin, IL
Notable Mass Shooting Events in Illinois’ Recent History
Illinois has experienced several tragic mass casualty events that underscore the ongoing threat 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 Illinois’ collective memory, highlight the importance of proactive security measures and comprehensive emergency preparedness.
Highland Park Parade Shooting (2022)
A man using a rifle shot into a fourth of July parade, killing 7 and injuring 48.
Henry Pratt Plant Shooting (2019)
A gunman opened fire at a manufacturing facility in Aurora, resulting in 5 deaths and 6 wounded.
Northern Illinois University Shooting (2008)
A former graduate student fired into a lecture hall, killing 5 and injuring 21 others.
Illinois’ Approach to Limiting Gun Violence
The state of Illinois has enacted several measures aimed at reducing gun violence through both legislative action and enforcement initiatives. Prevention efforts in Illinois combine policy reform, enhanced enforcement, and community-based programs.
Key gun violence prevention measures in Illinois:
- Firearm Owner Identification (FOID) card requirements
- Assault weapons ban enacted in 2023
- Enhanced background check systems
- Red flag laws allowing temporary removal of firearms from high-risk individuals
- Safe storage requirements for firearms
- Increased funding for violence intervention programs in Chicago and other cities
- School safety grants for security improvements and personnel
While these approaches can and do have an impact on curbing gun violence in Illinois, they are typically more reactive than preventative.
Why Illinois Needs Help Why Illinois Facilities Need Better Security Solutions to Prevent Gun Violence
Illinois facilities face unique security challenges that traditional systems often can’t address effectively. Most conventional security measures work better for post-incident investigation than real-time threat prevention.
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 Illinois 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 verified at your Illinois location, immediate action is required. The situation demands a swift and thorough emergency response. Illinois facilities using Omnilert deploy automated response systems across multiple platforms to maximize protection for all personnel.
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 Illinois Industries Are Most At Risk for Workplace Violence?
Our security platform serves diverse industries across Illinois, from Chicago’s business district to facilities throughout Cook County and beyond. Organizations implementing AI gun detection appreciate our system’s adaptability to different environments and technologies. While each workplace has distinct security concerns, the fundamental requirement stays consistent: detecting threats before they escalate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Common Questions About Gun Violence in Illinois
How many gun-related deaths occur in Illinois each year?
Illinois experiences, on average, over 1,600 gun-related deaths annually, with a large portion stemming from firearm homicides and suicides. Chicago alone accounts for a significant share of these incidents due to its population size and urban challenges.
Is gun violence increasing or decreasing in Illinois?
Gun violence in Illinois has fluctuated over recent years, with some decline since the peak levels seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, major cities like Chicago continue to experience persistent levels of shootings and gun-related crime.
What cities in Illinois have the highest gun violence rates?
Chicago consistently leads the state in gun violence incidents, particularly in neighborhoods with high poverty and limited access to resources. Other cities like East St. Louis and Rockford also report elevated rates per capita.
How does Illinois compare to other states in terms of gun violence?
While Illinois has one of the highest total numbers of gun deaths due to its population, its per capita firearm death rate is closer to the national average. Chicago’s numbers often skew public perception, but rural gun deaths—especially suicides—are also a serious concern.
What gun laws exist in Illinois to address violence?
Illinois has stricter gun laws than many other states, including mandatory background checks, a 72-hour waiting period, and a required Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card. The state also has a “Red Flag” law to temporarily remove guns from individuals deemed dangerous.
Are there gun violence prevention programs in Illinois?
Yes, Illinois has invested in violence interruption programs like Cure Violence and Chicago CRED, along with funding for community-based organizations. These initiatives focus on mentorship, job training, trauma support, and conflict resolution.
Sources
- https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/state-stats/deaths/firearms.html
- https://www.gunviolencearchive.org/explainer
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Highland_Park_parade_shooting
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurora,_Illinois_shooting
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Illinois_University_shooting
- https://everytownresearch.org/rankings/state/illinois/
- https://everytownresearch.org/report/city-data/
