A Comparison of Firearm-Related Intimate Partner Homicide in Missouri and Oregon: Prevalence, Risk, and the Effect of Firearm Regulations

Abstract

This case-control study will be conducted in two states (Missouri, Oregon), chosen to provide robust interstate firearm comparisons (regarding ownership/access and relevant firearm laws), and demographic and geographic diversity. We will collect case file and interview data to compare intimate partner homicide (IPH) and intimate partner homicide-suicide (IPH-S) victims (cases) to a random sample of individuals who experienced non-fatal physical intimate partner violence in the past two years (controls). The study will examine the prevalence and describe the context of firearm-related IPH and IPH-S; assess the extent to which firearm access, ownership, and/or use are risk factors for IPH and IPH-S; identify differential patterns of risk between firearm-related and non-firearm related IPH; and examine patterns of gun ownership behaviors and attitudes. Propensity score weighting, logistic regression analysis, and machine learning approaches will be used to identify IPH and IPH-S risk.

This study will increase our understanding of intimate partner homicide and homicide-suicide through the collection and analysis of contemporary, primary data with a focus on firearm ownership/access and applicable gun laws. Findings will inform evidence-based, multilevel, risk-informed approaches to reduce and prevent lethal intimate partner violence outcomes.