According to Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen, “Firearm injuries are now the leading cause of death for American children, including here in Pennsylvania. Many of these deaths are preventable by implementing consistent, safe storage, especially in homes with children.” She went on to say that Pennsylvania has made significant investments in public health and public safety initiatives across the state in recent years to address this issue, and has seen some positive developments. In addition to homicides decreasing by 16 percent across Pennsylvania in 2023—compared to 12 percent nationally— 29 out of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties saw declines in homicides. Philadelphia’s homicides also decreased 23 percent in 2023 compared to the prior year and are down 40 percent so far in 2024.However, while progress has been made, too many Pennsylvanians are still impacted by gun violence. In fact, firearm-related injuries remain the leading cause of death for children and adolescents, exceeding motor vehicle crashes. In addition, rates of firearm suicide among youth have also increased over the past decade, tripling among Black youth and doubling among Hispanic/Latino youth.

Pennsylvania’s gun death rate for youth is on par with the national average, and its firearm fatality rate overall is significantly higher than surrounding states. That’s why, on September 9, 2024, Governor Shapiro signed Executive Order 2024-02, re-establishing the Pennsylvania Office of Gun Violence Prevention within PCCD.

This year, DOH partnered with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to distribute free gun locks to residents across PA. More than one thousand gun locks have been given out at community events and state health centers. Residents interested in obtaining a free gun lock can contact their local state health center. Each free gun lock includes information regarding suicide prevention and firearm safety, acting as an important safeguard to help prevent gun-related suicides and unintentional firearm injuries.