A detailed analysis of the data from 2015 to 2023 offers some insights into this pressing issue. Over this period, the data reveals a fairly consistent trend in the number of incidents each month, with minor fluctuations. This consistency underscores the persistence of the issue over time.
A dive into the racial distribution of these incidents presents a more nuanced picture. Whites, who constitute a significant portion of the U.S. population, account for approximately 50.89% of the fatal police shootings. However, the figures for the Black community are particularly striking. Despite making up around 13% of the U.S. population, they represent a disproportionate 27.23% of the fatal police shootings. Hispanics follow, accounting for roughly 17.98%, while Asians, Native Americans, and others make up a smaller fraction, with 1.99%, 1.62%, and 0.29% respectively.
The data thus sheds light on the pressing need for a more comprehensive understanding and potential reforms in policing, especially considering the stark disparities in how different racial groups are affected.