Virginia Gun Violence Statistics & Prevention
How can we assess the scope of gun violence in Virginia, and what practical measures can employers and facility managers take to protect their communities?
At Omnilert, we work with AI security software and emergency notification systems across Virginia. We partner with organizations throughout the Commonwealth to address critical security challenges – particularly the threat of active shooter incidents.
Here, we present objective data about Virginia gun violence statistics and examine how traditional security approaches fall short when preventing casualty events. We’ll also explore how AI security technology can help create safer environments for Virginia communities.
Where Does Virginia Rank in Gun Violence?
The CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics conducts an annual survey of firearm mortality by state. So where does Virginia rank for gun violence amongst all fifty states?
Gun Related Deaths: #13
1,316 fatalities in 2022, ranking them number 13 of 50.
Population-Based Death Rate: #28
14.9 gun-related deaths per 100,000 people.
Top 5 Most Dangerous Cities in Virginia
- Portsmouth, VA
- Richmond, VA
- Norfolk, VA
- Hampton, VA
- Newport News, VA
Top 5 Safest Cities in Virginia
- Alexandria, VA
- Virginia Beach, VA
- Chesapeake, VA
- Lynchburg, VA
- Suffolk, VA
Significant Mass Shooting Events in Virginia’s Recent History
Virginia has experienced several devastating mass casualty events that have forever changed communities across the Commonwealth. These incidents serve as stark reminders of the importance of comprehensive security planning and early threat detection.
Chesapeake Walmart Shooting (2022)
A night-shift manager opened fire at customers at a Walmart in Chesapeake, killing 6 and injuring 4.
Virginia Beach Shooting (2019)
A gunman killed 12 people and injured four others during a shooting at a municipal building at Virginia Beach.
Virginia Tech Shooting (2007)
A gunman killed thirty-two students and teachers, and wounded seventeen others, during a shooting at Virginia Tech.
Virginia’s Approach to Limiting Gun Violence
The Commonwealth has implemented several laws to address gun violence, particularly following major incidents. Most efforts focus on regulatory changes, improved enforcement, and community intervention programs.
Several key methods for limiting gun violence in Virginia:
- Universal background checks for all gun sales (enacted 2020)
- Red flag laws allowing temporary removal of firearms from individuals deemed dangerous
- One handgun purchase per month limit (with exceptions for concealed carry permit holders)
- Enhanced reporting requirements for lost or stolen firearms within 48 hours
- Expanded local authority to regulate firearms in government buildings and public events
- Increased funding for mental health services and crisis intervention
- School safety improvements including emergency notification systems
While these approaches can and do have an impact on curbing gun violence in Virginia, they are typically more reactive than preventative.
Why Virginia Needs Help Why Virginia Facilities Need Better Security Solutions to Prevent Gun Violence
Traditional security systems across Virginia facilities often struggle with the rapid nature of active shooter events. These systems are generally more effective at documenting incidents than actually preventing casualties when someone is determined to cause harm.
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 Virginia 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 Virginia facility, immediate action becomes critical. Organizations using Omnilert can initiate comprehensive automated responses across multiple systems to help safeguard 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 Virginia Industries Are Vulnerable to Gun Violence?
We serve organizations throughout Virginia’s diverse economy. Clients deploying AI gun detection appreciate the technology’s ability to integrate with existing security infrastructure, though specific applications vary by sector and facility needs. Each environment presents unique security considerations, but the fundamental requirement remains consistent: detecting threats before they escalate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Common Questions About Virginia Gun Violence Statistics
How many gun-related deaths occur in Virginia each year?
On average, Virginia reports around 1,000 to 1,200 firearm-related deaths each year. These include homicides, suicides, and accidental shootings, with suicides making up the majority.
Is gun violence increasing in Virginia?
Yes, firearm-related deaths have been gradually increasing, particularly during and after the pandemic years. Urban gun homicides and rural firearm suicides both contribute to this rise.
Which cities in Virginia experience the most gun violence?
Richmond, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and parts of Northern Virginia report the highest rates of gun violence. Richmond, in particular, has consistently struggled with firearm-related homicides.
How does Virginia compare to other states in terms of gun violence?
Virginia’s overall firearm death rate is close to the national average. It ranks lower than many southern states for homicides but has a steadily growing rate of suicides by firearm.
What gun laws are currently in place in Virginia?
Virginia requires universal background checks, has enacted red flag laws, and limits handgun purchases to one per month. Open carry is legal, and concealed carry requires a permit.
Are there gun violence prevention programs in Virginia?
Yes, Virginia supports several state-funded and community-based programs, including Project Ceasefire, mental health outreach, and violence interruption initiatives in cities like Richmond and Norfolk.
Sources (as of September 3, 2025)
- https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/state-stats/deaths/firearms.html
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2022_Chesapeake_shooting
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Virginia_Beach_shooting
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virginia_Tech_shooting
- https://everytownresearch.org/rankings/state/virginia/
- https://everytownresearch.org/report/city-data/
