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As families gather to celebrate holidays, a troubling and often overlooked issue resurfaces: the rise in gun violence, particularly involving domestic disputes. 

While holidays are traditionally seen as a time of joy and togetherness, statistics reveal a darker trend — a spike in incidents of domestic violence, often exacerbated by firearms.

A concerning trend

Studies consistently show that the holiday season — including Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's — coincides with a notable increase in domestic violence. 

The National Domestic Violence Hotline reports a significant uptick in calls during these periods, with many cases involving firearms. 

Stressors such as financial pressures, unresolved family tensions, and substance abuse can escalate already volatile situations into violence.

According to the Gun Violence Archive, firearm-related domestic violence incidents surge during the holidays. 

In 2023 alone, incidents involving intimate partners or family members accounted for over 30 percent of all reported gun-related deaths during these months. 

Experts emphasize that firearms in the home can turn heated arguments into deadly outcomes.

It was estimated that 1.8 thousand people lost their lives to gun violence in 2023, which includes homicides, suicides, accidents, and other incidents where a shooting was considered the primary cause of death.

Why holidays are a high-risk period

Financial stress: The burden of holiday expenses can exacerbate tensions within households, especially when money is tight.

Substance abuse: Alcohol and drug consumption tends to increase during festivities, impairing judgment and heightening aggression.

Forced togetherness: Family gatherings may bring unresolved conflicts to the forefront, triggering arguments that can turn violent.

Isolation: For victims of abuse, holidays can make it harder to seek help, as support systems — such as schools, workplaces, and social services — may be temporarily unavailable.

Real stories, real impact

Tragically, many families experience firsthand the devastating consequences of gun violence during what should be a joyful time. 

According to the NC Department of Health and Human Services Violent Death Reporting System, the Halifax County 5-year overall gun violence death rate is 33 percent, which accounts for 84 lives lost too soon. 

This translates to 34.3 deaths per 100,000 people. Our 5-year violent death rate exceeds the state’s rate of 22.8. 

The North Carolina Violent Death Reporting System collects information on violent deaths that occur in North Carolina, including homicides, suicides, unintentional firearm deaths, legal intervention, and deaths of undetermined intent.

Steps to prevent tragedies

To prevent such tragedies, experts recommend that individuals and families take proactive steps to ensure safety:

Know the warning signs: Recognizing behaviors like increased irritability, controlling tendencies, or substance abuse can help identify potential risks before violence occurs.

Secure firearms: If guns are present in the home, ensure they are stored unloaded, locked, and out of reach from unauthorized users. Firearm safety devices can prevent impulsive acts of violence.

Have an exit plan: Victims of domestic violence should create a safety plan, including identifying safe places to go and keeping emergency contacts handy.

Reach out for support: Encourage open conversations with trusted friends, family members, or professional organizations like domestic violence hotlines.

Limit substance use: Moderating alcohol and behavior altering drug consumption can help minimize the risk of impaired judgment during family gatherings.

Community action and awareness

Hannah's Place, faith-based organizations, community partners, and local authorities are working tirelessly to reduce the impact of gun violence during the holidays. 

Grassroots efforts offered in the community include:

Lighthouse Ministries: Providing education and gun safety locks during the food distribution on Saturday mornings, December 21 and 28, in the parking lot of The Vault on Roanoke Avenue.

Gun Violence Prevention and Domestic Violence Awareness Cool Spring Baptist Church in Gaston December 27.

Gun Violence Prevention and Domestic Violence Awareness Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Hollister 11 a.m. December 29.

Domestic Violence and Gun Violence Vigil: Scheduled in Scotland Neck. December 28

Art/Poster Contest: Held in area high schools, with the art on display Sunday, January 12, from 1-3 p.m. at The Paint Palette, 1010 Roanoke Avenue, Roanoke Rapids.

Outreach Events Gun Violence Prevention Domestic Violence Awareness 51 Sycamore Weldon, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. December 30..

Final thoughts

While the holidays should be a time for peace and connection, the harsh reality of gun violence — especially in domestic settings — remains a pressing concern. 

By fostering awareness, offering support, and taking personal safety measures, families can work toward preventing tragedies and creating safer environments for all.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, resources are available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit its website

For emergencies, contact local law enforcement immediately by calling 911.

Alice P. Brunson

Executive Director

Hannah's Place, Inc.

Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870

Office Phone: (252) 541-2037

DV/SA  Crisis Line: (252) 541-2064

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.