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Oklahoma Violent Death Reporting System

Oklahoma is one of 42 states and territories that participate in the National Violent Death Reporting System. The Oklahoma Violent Death Reporting System (OKVDRS) collects data on homicides, suicides, deaths due to unintentional firearm injury, legal intervention, or terrorism. Deaths of undetermined manner/intent are also included in the reporting system.

Data are collected from death certificates, medical examiner reports, and law enforcement records. Specific information on victims, suspects, weapons, and circumstances surrounding the deaths are included in the database.

During 2012-2016, an average of 1,138 Oklahomans died each year as a result of violence.

  • Suicide was the leading type of violent death accounting for an average of 743 deaths per year.
    • Mental health issues, intimate partner problems, depressed mood, and physical health problems were the most common substances leading to suicide.
  • Homicide was the second leading type of violent death accounting for an average of 268 deaths per year.
    • Arguments, criminal activity, intimate partner violence, and drug involvement were the circumstances most often associated with homicide.
  • Undetermined manner/intent was the third leading type of violent death accounting for an average of 89 deaths per year.
  • Overall, males were more likely to be victims of violent death than females.
  • Firearms were used to kill in 58% of all violent deaths, including 61% of suicides and 64% of homicides.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health collaborates with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to collect the data.

OK-VDRS Reports

Related Reports