Analysis of 14 years (2009–2022) of suicides and homicides involving the use of weapons recorded at the Milan medicolegal institute: update and comparison with the period 1993–2008

Abstract

Firearms and cutting/stubbing weapons continue to be primary methods through which both self-inflicted and interpersonal violence manifest with forensic and judicial consequences. Hence, conducting an updated study on suicide and homicide involving these weapons in Milan, Italy, during 2009–2022 was deemed appropriate. This study includes comparisons with a similar analysis spanning 1993–2008, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of changes over a 30-year period in the misuse of firearms and cutting/stubbing weapons within the same geographical area. Overall, there has been a notable decrease in homicides overall (from 54 % to 44 %), particularly those involving firearms (from 53.5 % to 36.5 %), alongside an increase in homicides committed with cutting/stubbing weapons (from 46.5 % to 63.5 %). However, when considering homicides and suicides together, firearms still account for the majority of deaths (56.7 % vs 43.3 %, ratio 1.3:1), though the gap has narrowed compared to previous years. Moreover, there has been a rise in homicides occurring in domestic settings (>40 %) with family members as perpetrators (37 %), and an increase in cases involving legally owned firearms (from 18 % to 34 %). Concurrently, the proportion of suicides has also increased (from 46 % to 56 %), highlighting the prevalent use of firearms (72.5 %). Overall, a different scenario emerges compared to the past, yet the misuse of firearms and cutting/stubbing weapons remains a persistent issue in society. This underscores the need for ongoing monitoring of such incidents and targeted efforts for prevention and regulation.