Analysis of 14 years (2009–2022) of suicides and homicides involving the use of weapons recorded at the Milan medicolegal institute: update and comparison with the period 1993–2008

Firearms and cutting/stubbing weapons continue to be primary methods through which both self-inflicted and interpersonal violence manifest with forensic and judicial consequences. Hence, conducting an updated study on suicide and homicide involving these weapons in Milan, Italy, during 2009-2022 was deemed appropriate. This study includes comparisons with a similar analysis spanning 1993-2008, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of changes over a 30-year period in the misuse of firearms and cutting/stubbing weapons within the same geographical area. Overall, there has been a notable decrease in homicides overall (from 54 % to 44 %), particularly those involving firearms (from 53.5 % to 36.5 %), alongside an increase in homicides committed with cutting/stubbing weapons (from 46.5 % to 63.5 %). However, when considering homicides and suicides together, firearms still account for the majority of deaths (56.7 % vs 43.3 %, ratio 1.3:1), though the gap has narrowed compared to previous years. Moreover, there has been a rise in homicides occurring in domestic settings (>40 %) with family members as perpetrators (37 %), and an increase in cases involving legally owned firearms (from 18 % to 34 %). Concurrently, the proportion of suicides has also increased (from 46 % to 56 %), highlighting the prevalent use of firearms (72.5 %). Overall, a different scenario emerges compared to the past, yet the misuse of firearms and cutting/stubbing weapons remains a persistent issue in society. This underscores the need for ongoing monitoring of such incidents and targeted efforts for prevention and regulation.