• Most attackers exhibited behavior that caused concern in family members, friends, neighbors, classmates, co-workers, and others. In many cases, these individuals feared for the safety of themselves or others.
• Many attackers had a history of physically aggressive or intimidating behaviors, evidenced by previous violent-crime arrests or charges, domestic violence, or other acts of violence toward others.
• Half of the attackers were motivated by grievances and were retaliating for perceived wrongs related to personal, domestic, or workplace issues.
• Most of the attackers used firearms, many of which were possessed illegally at the time of the attack.
• One-quarter of the attackers subscribed to a belief system involving conspiracies or hateful ideologies, including anti-government, anti-Semitic, and misogynistic views.
• Many attackers experienced stressful events in various areas of life, including family or romantic relationships, employment situations, and legal issues. In some cases, attackers experienced a specific triggering event before perpetrating the attack.
• More than half of the attackers experienced mental health symptoms before or at the time of the attack, including depression, psychotic symptoms, and/or suicidal thoughts.

As the nation searches for solutions, employers can play an important role. Enhanced mental health benefits may be especially important in the wake of the pandemic and at a time of economic uncertainty.