Alaska's natives have a high murder rate, especially on reservations.
AI Overview
In Alaska, American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations experience disproportionately high rates of homicide compared to the overall U.S. population. Specifically, homicide rates for AI/AN individuals are significantly higher than those for non-Hispanic white individuals, and this disparity is particularly pronounced for males. Additionally, gun violence, including both homicides and suicides, is a major concern within AI/AN communities, with rates reaching record highs in recent years.
Here's a more detailed look:
- Overall Homicide Rates:
The age-adjusted homicide rate for AI/AN individuals is 8.0 per 100,000 population, which is higher than the rate for the general U.S. population.
- Gender Disparity:
Homicide rates are significantly higher for AI/AN males compared to females.
- Gun Violence:
A large percentage of homicides among AI/ANs involve firearms, and the firearm homicide rate is substantially higher than that of non-Hispanic whites.
- Rising Rates:
Gun violence, including both homicides and suicides, is on the rise in AI/AN communities, reaching the highest levels on record in 2022.
- Geographic Variations:
The rates of gun violence and homicide can vary significantly by state and even within tribes.
- Age:
Young AI/AN individuals are particularly vulnerable to firearm homicide and suicide.
- Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons:
Alaska has been identified as having a high number of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, with Anchorage as one of the cities with the most cases.