Mass Murders in America The television turns on, everyone puts their hands to their mouths in shock. Another massacre took place. As a nation, we feel like this is happening more than before, but to what extent is it actually happening? The images of Newtown, Aurora and Virginia Tech are etched in the minds of Americans. Since 2006, there have been more than 200 massacres in America (Overburg). Newtown, Aurora, and Virginia Tech capture the nation's attention, but similar bloody scenes occur with alarming frequency and with much less attention (Overburg). The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) classifies a massacre of four or more people. As gun control and mental illness become a major topic due to these mass killings, USA Today set out to find out who is committing these killings, the weapons they use and the forces motivating them. USA Today examined data from the FBI and local police and found that mass shootings in America occur far more often than the government reports. Additionally, the circumstances surrounding these murders are much more unique than most people realize. Massacres take place approximately every two weeks. Massacres account for only 1% of murders in America, but they still occur far too frequently. The FBI said there were 172 mass killings between 2006 and 2011 (Overburg). These numbers do not include large states like Florida, for example. FBI reports on the killings proved less accurate than USA Today found. The number of 172 does not include all massacres and also includes massacres that do not meet the requirements of a massacre. A timeline of massacres provided by USA Today shows that between 2006 and 2013, there was a consistent number of massacres. There have already been 4 massacres... middle of paper ... people inside before running out and killing a woman nearby. After a police chase, Stawicki committed suicide (“We could see this coming”). If Stawicki had gotten help beforehand, he would have been better off and maybe this shooting could have been avoided. There are many examples showing that the government could put in place safety nets and prevent many of these killings. Mass killings are an epidemic in America. With the passage of numerous laws aimed at protecting Americans from mass killings, it is important to know all the facts. It's a good thing USA Today created this database. When correct information is shared with the public, it helps people make better decisions when voting and making choices. Since massacres occur approximately every two weeks, it will affect everyone. Massacres are not inevitable, but knowing the facts can help alleviate some of these massacres..