The dependence of mass shootings on the phases of the lunar cycle

Introduction. Under consideration are patterns in the behavior of persons carrying out mass shootings, which could be used to develop a program for the prevention of this type of crimes. The aim is to reveal objective factors which influence the implementation of armed violent acts committed by persons belonging to the category of mass shooters. Materials and Methods. 173 cases of mass shootings in the countries of the Northern Hemisphere and 45 acts of mass shootings committed during the same period in the Russian Federation were considered through the method of analysis of specific situations (case method). Each case was analyzed according to seven criteria in order to identify geographical, calendar and lunar-phase dependencies. Results and Discussion. The influence of the Moon on the implementation of acts of mass shootings is proved; the risky period is determined, which is the interval of "the nodal point of the lunar cycle plus/minus three days"; the complete identity of the revealed patterns in the behavior of mass shooters with the previously identified features in the behavior of persons carrying out mass shootings in educational institutions (school shooters) is shown. Conclusions. Two categories of people who carried out mass shootings - school shooters and mass shooters - show an objective connection between their behavior and the phases of the lunar cycle. The revealed pattern should be taken into account when developing programs for early detection and prevention of such crimes.