Firearms-related fatalities increased 56% in the first half of the year over 2013

According to our preliminary data, 67 law enforcement officers were killed in the line of duty during the first half of 2014—25 of which were a result of firearms-related incidents.

Craig W. Floyd, the CEO of the Memorial Fund, declared, "The sharp rise in officers killed by gunfire—many in ambush-style attacks—as well as a significant increase in fatal on-duty heart attacks reminds us that much more work needs to be done to improve officer safety and wellness."

And a great deal of that work is being done by the Bureau of Justice Assistance. Through the VALOR program, BJA has trained over 15,000 officers across the country to recognize and respond to ambush-style attacks and other intentional assaults on officers. These free nationwide trainings have helped prepare officers for developing dangers in the field.

Learn more and find upcoming trainings at www.ValorForBlue.org

In partnership with the Memorial Fund, the VALOR program issued the following training recommendations based on our preliminary data.

Training Recommendations

Ambush attacks on officers continue to be a leading cause of felonious death among officers and these attacks can occur at any time. Routine activities such as completing reports, mapping an address to a call or talking to a complainant can turn deadly if officers are not constantly practicing situational awareness.  Be on guard at all times.

As the most visible sign of government, law enforcement officers are often targeted by anti-government groups. Review your training on the tactics used by these extremists groups so you can remain vigilant and stay safe.

Investigating suspicious persons and circumstances was the leading cause of firearms-related fatalities in the first half of this year.  When responding to these types of calls make sure you have proper back-up and never take a suspicious activity call casually.