School shootings remain a prominent threat in the United States, with a dramatic increase in the number of incidents since 2021. Understanding the factors that distinguish averted school shootings from those that are carried out is critical for improving prevention strategies and policies. This study analyzes 278 incidents from the Averted School Violence database from Safe and Sound Schools to identify factors of whether a school shooting was averted or carried out. Logistic regression models revealed that incidents had higher odds of being carried out when the shooter had experienced a traumatic life event or had a co-conspirator. Schools with active shooter response protocols were associated with higher odds of averted incidents, while those with enhanced security measures had higher odds to be carried-out shootings. These findings highlight the importance of integrating mental health support, behavioral monitoring, and strategic school safety policies to reduce the likelihood of school shootings and foster safer educational environments.
