Obsession with previous mass shootings could signal a potential threat in a school shooter scenario
In a tragic event that shook the community, a shooter opened fire at the Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis on August 27, killing two schoolchildren aged 8 and 10, and wounding 21 others. The perpetrator, who was suspended from school around seventh grade after discussing school shootings with classmates, had a morbidly obsessive and deep fascination with mass shootings.
Experts in the field of criminology have long been studying the mindset of mass shooters, and their findings suggest that this fascination can be linked to a desire to feel understood and connect with a broader group of people. James Densley, a professor of criminology at Metro State University in Minnesota and co-founder of The Violence Prevention Project, stated, "We often say one of the greatest red flags is an unhealthy obsession and fascination with past mass shooters."
The Annunciation shooter, like many others, was found to have scrawled the names of other mass killers, including the Unabomber, Columbine attackers, and the Tree of Life synagogue shooter, in their writings. The fascination with past mass shooters can be likened to celebrity worship, with some shooters studying their role models and seeking the same notoriety.
One particular source of obsession for many mass shooters is the Columbine attackers. A subculture of people online known as "Columbiners" romanticize and idealize a mythologized version of the Columbine shooters, offering odes in the form of memes, fashion choices, and music. The online community known as "Incels" (involuntary celibates) has also engaged with mass murderers, and this community played a role in inspiring and influencing the Annunciation school shooter.
To better prevent such tragedies, experts recommend educating parents, teachers, and community members about the internet to better moderate their children's online activities. They also advise against glorifying the mass shooter or featuring their name or image more than necessary in news media, adhering to "No Notoriety" guidelines.
Parents are encouraged to try to better track what their children are doing online and learn more about online forums that may discuss mass shooters. Understanding the mindset of mass shooters can help the public spot warnings and concerning behaviours before they turn violent.
It is crucial to remember that a child's fascination with school shooters or incidents of mass violence is a serious red flag. If you or someone you know exhibits such behaviour, it is important to seek help immediately. The safety and well-being of our communities should always be a top priority.
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