Many older adults who died by gun suicide had a contributing physical health problem

Among people who died by gun suicide, those 70 and older were much more likely to have a contributing physical health problem than people under 70, according to 2021 data from 31 California counties.

Note: Chart includes data from 31 counties that participated in the California Violent Death Reporting System (CalVDRS) and is not representative of all suicide deaths statewide. Data is limited to suicide deaths for which at least one circumstance is known from the law enforcement or coroner and medical examiner reports provided to CalVDRS.
Chart: Natasha Uzcátegui-Liggett, CalMattersSource: California Violent Death Reporting System