Utah Gun Violence Statistics & Prevention
How can we measure the impact of gun violence in Utah, 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 Utah to help solve for the worst case security scenarios – especially active shooter events.
Here, we provide objective information about Utah gun violence trends 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 do Utah Gun Violence Statistics rank?
The CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics conducts an annual survey of firearm mortality by state. So where does Utah rank for gun violence amongst all fifty states?
Gun Related Deaths: #33
446 fatalities in 2022, ranking them number 33 of 50.
Population-Based Death Rate: #35
13.7 gun-related deaths per 100,000 people.
Top 5 Most Dangerous Cities in Utah
- Salt Lake City, UT
- West, UT
- Sandy, UT
- Layton, UT
- Ogden, UT
Top 5 Safest Cities in Utah
- St. George, UT
- South Jordan, UT
- Orem, UT
- Lehi, UT
- West Jordan, UT
Utah’s Approach to Limiting Gun Violence
Utah maintains relatively permissive gun laws compared to many states, with recent legislation expanding gun rights. The state has implemented various strategies to address gun violence, though most focus on policy and community-based approaches rather than comprehensive prevention measures.
Several key methods for limiting gun violence in Utah:
- Constitutional carry for those 21 and older (enacted 2021) – no permit required for concealed carry
- Background checks required only for purchases from licensed dealers, not private sales
- Domestic violence protections that require abusers under restraining orders to surrender firearms
- School safety measures including the Educator-Protector Program allowing trained teachers to carry firearms
- State preemption laws that limit local jurisdictions from enacting their own gun regulations
- No extreme risk protection order (“red flag”) laws currently in place
While these approaches can and do have an impact on curbing gun violence in Utah, they are typically more reactive than preventative.
Why Utah Needs Help Why Utah Facilities Need Better Security Solutions to Prevent Gun Violence
Most security systems today have built-in limitations that make them less effective at preventing a determined active shooter. Traditional approaches are generally better suited for documenting incidents rather than stopping violence before it happens.
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 Utah 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 Engaging a Full-Scale Emergency Response to Active Shooters
When an active threat is confirmed at your Utah facility, immediate and comprehensive emergency response is critical. Facilities using Omnilert can initiate automated response across multiple systems to help protect as many people 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 Utah Industries Are Vulnerable to Gun Violence?
We work with facilities across Utah’s diverse economy. Organizations implementing AI gun detection value our platform’s ability to integrate with existing technologies, though specific applications vary by environment. Each setting presents unique security challenges, but all share the same fundamental need: detecting threats before they escalate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Common Questions About Utah Gun Violence Statistics
How many gun-related deaths occur in Utah each year?
Utah reports approximately 400 to 500 firearm-related deaths annually. The majority of these deaths are due to suicide, which far outpaces homicides and accidental shootings.
Is gun violence increasing in Utah?
Yes, overall gun violence—especially suicide by firearm—has increased over the past decade. While homicide rates remain relatively low compared to national averages, suicide rates are consistently high.
Which cities or regions in Utah have the most gun violence?
Salt Lake City reports the highest number of firearm-related incidents, especially homicides and assaults. However, rural counties report higher suicide rates per capita, often involving firearms.
How does Utah compare to other states in gun violence statistics?
Utah has a lower-than-average firearm homicide rate but ranks higher in firearm suicide rate. This gives the state a moderate overall firearm death rate with a distinctly rural public health challenge.
What gun laws are in place in Utah to address gun violence?
Utah allows permitless concealed carry and does not require background checks for private gun sales. While a red flag law has been proposed, it has not yet been passed as of the most recent legislative session.
Are there any gun violence prevention programs in Utah?
Yes, Utah supports several suicide prevention initiatives through public health agencies, including the SafeUT crisis chat and tip app. Educational campaigns and firearm safety outreach are also active at both local and state levels.
Sources (as of Sept 3, 2025)
- https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/state-stats/deaths/firearms.html
- https://everytownresearch.org/rankings/state/utah/
- https://everytownresearch.org/report/city-data/
