CDC releases report on violent death rates

Atlanta – An estimated 50,000 people die annually from violence-related injuries, according to a report released Aug. 26 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Using 2008 data, the report indicates that more than half of violent deaths were the result of suicide. Slightly more than one-quarter were the result of homicide or legal intervention, such as a police shooting, and 14.5 percent were undetermined intent. Only 0.4 percent were unintentional firearm deaths.

Suicide occurred at a higher rate among men, American Indians/Alaska Natives and non-Hispanic whites, and individuals 45-54 years old. Most suicides occurred in the home, and slightly more than half involved a firearm.

Homicides were more common among men, non-Hispanic blacks and individuals 20-24 years old. A firearm was involved in 65.8 percent of homicides. Slightly more than half occurred in a home, while 21.8 percent occurred on a street or highway.