NCJ Number
151610
Journal
JAMA Volume: 272 Issue: 1 Dated: (July 6, 1994) Pages: 43-46
Date Published
1994
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Data from all 4,298 homicide victims in New York City during 1990 and 1991 were analyzed by means of a descriptive epidemiologic survey to determine differences between racial and ethnic groups in the homicide rates, the proportion of homicides from firearms, and the use of cocaine prior to death.
Abstract
The information came from medical examiner records and was analyzed using logistic regression techniques. Results revealed that young black and Hispanic men were more likely to be homicide victims than were all other demographic groups. Approximately three-fourths of the homicides involved firearms. Among the homicide victims dying within 48 hours, 31 percent were positive for cocaine metabolites. Blacks, Hispanics, and victims ages 25-34 or 35-44 were more likely than others to test positive for cocaine metabolites. Young males and females were equally likely to have used cocaine before death. The use of cocaine before death was not associated with being killed by a firearm. Findings suggested that the high rates of death by homicide among young African Americans and Latinos may be due to the increased involvement with both cocaine and firearms. Therefore, new efforts are needed to reduce cocaine use and the availability of firearms. Figures, tables, and 51 references