22/06/2026
For everyone's reference
The media plays an important role in delivering news during mass shootings. Here are some guidelines for the ethical and responsible coverage of mass shootings.
- Be mindful of your words. Avoid using terms like “successful” or “failed,” like there is something to be gained or lost when carrying out the attack.
- Avoid reporting very specific details. There is a risk of copycat mass shootings. Reporting very specific details of the event may reinforce these copycat behaviors. Sensationalized imagery or messaging may also cause further distress.
- Focus on the survivors and not on the shooter. Do not glamorize the act by naming the shooter. Provide space for survivors to tell their stories at their own pace.
- Do not show raw images or videos of the shooting. This may cause unnecessary distress to the general public, and may exacerbate distress of those affected and their families. Obtain informed consent before filming survivors/victims and their families.
- Consider your presence in the affected community. Be sensitive as to how your presence in the community/school may make the community feel. Avoid intrusive questioning. Respect the grief and mourning of affected individuals and families.
- Avoid reporting on the shooter’s psychological state or mental health, or on their motives. Wait for a thorough investigation before reporting these conclusions, as this may have a negative effect on other people with mental health concerns, or may motivate copycat shooters.
Furthermore, make sure you report clearly and calmly so as not to cause unnecessary anxiety and confusion.
Provide resources for those who might be in need of professional help. Include information on crisis hotlines, counseling services, and community support.
Report only the facts and avoid speculation. For more guidance, you may check the following:
Rockefeller Institute of Governance: Recommended Practices for Media Outlets Working with Mass Shooting Survivorshttps://rockinst.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Recommended-Best-Practices-for-Media.pdf
Colorado School Safety Resource Center:https://cdpsdocs.state.co.us/safeschools/CSSRC%20Documents/CSSRC_Media_Guide_on_Reporting_School_Tragedies.pdf
APA Resources for Coping with Shootings https://www.apa.org/topics/gun-violence-crime/mass-shooting-resources