The spatial distribution of random gunfire: A block-level investigation of physical and social structural conditions

This paper examines the environmental and social structural correlates associated with random gunfire incidents. The study group consists of 273 face blocks and intersections in a selected portion of Dallas, Texas. The data show some locations routinely generate random gunfire, while others remain gunshot-free. The analysis suggests environmental factors are not sufficient to explain random gunfire. Implications for future inquiries are offered. The research for this paper was supported by Grant No. DOJ-OH-6-8971 from the National Institute of Justice. Findings and conclusions of the research reported here are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice. The authors are indebted to the support from the Dallas Police Department with special appreciation to Sgt. Mark Stallo, Sgt. Bruce McDonald, and Southwest Crime Analyst Mike Edgar. Thanks also go to James Frank from the University of Cincinnati and Kasaundra Tomlin from the University of Central Florida.