LAUSR

Key Points Question Was the COVID-19 pandemic associated with differences in levels, timing, and types of violent penetrating injuries presenting to a level I urban trauma center? Findings In this cross-sectional study that included 2383 patients with violent injuries, there was a significant increase in patients who presented with firearm injuries but not stabbing injuries during the first pandemic year compared with the previous 5 years. This surge in firearm injuries began while Massachusetts was still under a stay-at-home advisory and before large-scale racial justice protests. Meaning These findings suggest that policies and procedures aimed at mitigating firearm violence as part of all-hazard preparedness are warranted.