In an age where violence can erupt anywhere — in churches, schools, malls, or street corners — the responsibility for self-preservation cannot be outsourced. The United States Secret Service’s Mass Attacks in Public Spaces – 2019 report, compiled by the National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC), presents a chilling reality: mass attacks are often predictable, preventable, and increasingly perpetrated with illegally obtained firearms in public areas.
The time for passive hope is over. Responsible citizens must actively prepare to defend themselves, their families, and their communities. Firearms training — not just ownership — is an essential component of modern personal safety. This article explores key findings from the NTAC report and uses real-world examples to illustrate why legally armed citizens need comprehensive, scenario-based self-defense training.
Mass Attacks: Where and How They Happen
The NTAC analyzed 34 mass attacks across 21 U.S. states in 2019, which led to 108 fatalities and 178 injuries. These incidents occurred in seemingly “safe” environments: houses of worship, supermarkets, workplaces, residential complexes, and even a school bus.
Of these attacks:
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71% involved firearms — with many attackers possessing weapons illegally.
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Over half happened in broad daylight, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
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Some attacks were over in less than five minutes, yet left behind double-digit casualty counts.
These aren’t military ambushes. They’re close-quarters, rapid, and often indiscriminate acts of violence — and they can happen in the line at your favorite coffee shop or walking your child home from school.
Who Are the Attackers?
The report doesn’t just track the events — it dissects the attackers’ backgrounds:
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51% had prior criminal histories — many including violent offenses like domestic assault.
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46% showed signs of untreated mental illness — including psychosis, suicidal ideations, and delusions.
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30% were under age 25 — a sharp rise in adolescent and young adult involvement.
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65% had previously made threats or displayed warning signs — yet intervention often failed.
This isn’t random evil. It’s a convergence of known risks, ignored behaviors, and access to means. As law enforcement agencies face legal, political, and staffing constraints, they cannot be everywhere at once. That’s why your readiness matters.
The Reality of Response Time
Even the best police departments have a response delay. Consider the August 4, 2019, shooting in Dayton, Ohio — nine people were killed and 20 injured in just 32 seconds. Law enforcement engaged quickly, but still, multiple lives were lost before they could act.
By contrast, in cases where armed citizens or security personnel intervened (such as the December 29, 2019, church shooting in White Settlement, Texas), the threat was neutralized in seconds. In that case, a single well-trained civilian stopped a mass killing with one accurate shot — ending an attack that began in a room filled with unarmed parishioners.
Preparedness Means More Than Ownership
Too many Americans believe that simply owning a firearm is sufficient. The reality is starkly different. Under stress, without training in movement, shot placement, and threat identification, even armed civilians are vulnerable.
Modern firearms training should include:
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Stress inoculation drills simulating real-life scenarios
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Legal use-of-force education to avoid criminal or civil liability
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Close-quarters defense tactics when disarmed or ambushed
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Precision shooting under pressure — especially in crowded spaces
Organizations like Valortec advocate for high-liability, reality-based firearms training that replicates these conditions. We train civilians the same way we train law enforcement and executive protection personnel — because violence doesn’t distinguish between uniforms and civilians.
The Call to Action: Become Part of the Solution
The NTAC’s conclusion is clear: “These tragedies are preventable if the appropriate community systems are in place.”
While threat assessment teams, mental health professionals, and law enforcement are critical — they are the second line of defense. The first line is you.
Invest in:
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Professional firearms training
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Mental preparedness under stress
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Responsible firearm storage and access
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Legal knowledge to guide your defensive actions
Being armed without training is a liability. Being trained and armed makes you an asset to your family and community.
Final Thought:
The world has changed. The question is no longer if violence might come to your doorstep — it’s when. Training is not paranoia — it’s preparation. It’s not about living in fear — it’s about living responsibly.
Arm yourself not just with a weapon, but with the knowledge and skill to use it lawfully, ethically, and effectively.
At Valortec, we believe preparedness is a lifestyle — not a weekend hobby. If you’re ready to train with professionals who take your safety as seriously as you do, visit valortec.com and explore our defensive firearms training programs.
