Fact check: How do mass shooting statistics compare between different demographics, including LGBTQ individuals?

1. Summary of the results

The analyses provided show that mass shootings are predominantly perpetrated by cis-gender men, with research indicating that the majority of mass shootings are carried out by men who are not transgender ^{[1] [2]}. In fact, only one suspect out of 200 mass shootings examined was transgender, suggesting no growing link between transgender people and mass shootings ^[2]. LGBTQ+ individuals are more likely to be victims of gun violence and hate crimes, with nearly 20% of all hate crimes motivated by sexual orientation and/or gender identity bias ^[3]. Additionally, LGBTQ+ people are more than twice as likely to be victims of gun violence and face higher rates of bullying and violence at school ^[3]. The data also highlights that LGBTQ+ young people are at a higher risk of suicide, with 40% of LGBTQ+ young people reported having a firearm in their home, which is associated with higher rates of seriously considering and attempting suicide ^[4]. Furthermore, LGBT people are disproportionately victimized, with LGBT people being five times more likely than non-LGBT people to be victims of violent crime, and nine times more likely to experience violent hate crimes ^[5]. Hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community remain alarmingly high, with 17.2% of all hate crimes being based on sexual orientation and 4% based on gender identity in 2024 ^[6].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

A key aspect missing from the original statement is the disproportionate victimization of LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly Black LGBT people, who have the highest rates of victimization overall, followed by Hispanic and White LGBT people ^[5]. Another crucial context is the rise in anti-trans rhetoric and policy, which corresponds with the rise in hate crimes targeting transgender and gender non-conforming people, with over 50% of all incidents targeting this group ^[7]. Additionally, the relationship between access to firearms and suicide risk among LGBTQ+ young people is a critical context that is often overlooked ^[4]. It is essential to consider these factors to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issue. The analyses also highlight the need for more support from political leaders to address hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community ^[6].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement may be misleading as it implies a comparison between mass shooting statistics among different demographics, including LGBTQ individuals, without providing context about the disproportionate victimization of LGBTQ+ individuals ^{[3] [5]}. This framing may benefit those who seek to downplay the severity of hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community, as it diverts attention from the actual issue of victimization and focuses on the perpetrators ^[6]. Furthermore, the statement may perpetuate harmful stereotypes by implying a link between LGBTQ+ individuals and mass shootings, which is not supported by the data ^{[1] [2]}. The correct framing should emphasize the need for greater support and protection for LGBTQ+ individuals, who are disproportionately affected by gun violence and hate crimes ^{[3] [5] [6]}.