Story perspectives

Fatal Police Shootings: 86% Support Mental Health Responses

1/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

From 2015 to 2024, U.S. police fatally shot 2,057 people in mental health crises, about 20% of all police killings.
California reported the highest number, 274.
California policies let sheriff's departments decline mental health responses when no crime is reported.
An Ipsos poll found 86% favor mental health responses over police intervention.
Advocates say trained mental health responders are needed to reduce fatal encounters because many communities lack adequate resources.

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Story summary

From 2015 to 2024, U.S. police fatally shot 2,057 people in mental health crises, about 20% of all police killings.
California reported the highest number, 274.
California policies let sheriff's departments decline mental health responses when no crime is reported.
An Ipsos poll found 86% favor mental health responses over police intervention.
Advocates say trained mental health responders are needed to reduce fatal encounters because many communities lack adequate resources.