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Law Enforcement Duty Deaths: 2014 Statistics

In 2014, the Officer Down Memorial Page (ODMP) reported 121 law enforcement line of duty deaths. Gunfire was the main cause of duty deaths with 49 (2 accidental). Automobile accidents that killed 26 officers. There was 17 on duty heart attack deaths. The month of May was the deadliest month of the year, taking 18 heroes. California had the most officers killed with 14, followed by Texas with 11 officers deaths.

Gender:

  • Male 117
  • Female 4

The average age of officers killed in 2014 was 40 years of age.

The average duty time of officers on the job at the time of their death was 12 years and 3 months.

Line of Duty Deaths

  • Assault: 2
  • Automobile accident: 26
  • Drowned: 1
  • Duty related illness: 1
  • Fire: 1
  • Gunfire: 47
  • Gunfire (Accidental): 2
  • Heart attack: 17
  • Motorcycle accident: 4
  • Struck by vehicle: 5
  • Vehicle pursuit: 5
  • Vehicular assault: 10

Lessons from the Statistics

One statistical number that we can immediately address is Heart Attacks. Getting regular doctor checks is a preventive way to identify and treat those in high risk-categories of heart attacks or heart disease. Take the time to see your doctor and schedule a screening if you have a family history of heart disease, gained weight, or have been under more than normal stress either personally or professionally.

Stress management is a key element to a healthy and sustainable career in law enforcement. Work with your doctor on finding the balance between a good exercise program, and eating healthy in 2015.

About the Author

Mark Bond

Mark Bond has worked in law enforcement and has been a firearms instructor for more than 33 years. His law enforcement experience includes the military, local, state and federal levels as a police officer and criminal investigator. Mark obtained a BS and MS in criminal justice, and M.Ed in educational leadership with Summa Cum Laude honors. As a lifelong learner, he is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in education (EdD) with a concentration in college teaching and learning. Mark is currently an assistant professor of criminal justice at a university and adjunct professor of administration of justice studies at a community college.