Our Regional Office of Gun Violence Prevention works closely with community partners who serve as credible messengers and violence interrupters. On occasion, violence interrupters respond to shootings to help de-escalate situations and check on the safety of people in the community. In the second comic in our series on gun violence prevention, we see this critical work in action.
About Regional Gun Violence Prevention
The team of adults who serve as violence interrupters strategically engage young people in communities that have been heavily impacted by gun violence. Violence interrupters mentor them in developing life skills and navigating difficult situations, including how to remove themselves from potential violence. They are also involved in conflict mediation, safe passage, safety patrolling at events, and supporting families directly impacted with gun violence. When needed, violence interrupters actively intervene to prevent a potentially violent situation from escalating.
Learn more about the work of the Regional Gun Violence Prevention: kingcounty.gov/rgv
Thanks to Brandon Shell and Mark Rivers for their help developing this story. Comic by Ariana Donaville and Meredith Li-Vollmer.
See other comics in this series:
“I got you”: the work of a Violence Interrupter – PUBLIC HEALTH INSIDER
Originally published on February 19, 2025.