Online 'True Crime' Cult Fuels New Wave of Mass Shooters

Criminologists Dr. Densley and Dr. Peterson observe a significant shift in mass shooter profiles over the past decade. Previously, mass shooters were often described as middle-aged, socially isolated men experiencing personal crises. However, a new paradigm is emerging: younger individuals, deeply connected to online social networks, are increasingly carrying out violent acts.

This transformation is fueled by online subcultures, particularly the "true crime" community. On platforms like TikTok, Discord, and Roblox, mass murderers are celebrated, with content often glorifying their actions. Despite content moderation, this material frequently reappears, sometimes coded.

Researchers link at least seven U.S. school shootings between 2024 and the fall to this community. These online spaces appear to provide a narrative script for despair, offering a sense of belonging and notoriety for those who commit violence. The trend highlights growing online pathologies and challenges prevention efforts.

Recent incidents exemplify this shift. An 18-year-old in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, who engaged with mass shooting simulations online, tragically killed multiple people. Another shooter in Minneapolis inscribed weapons with quotes from past mass killers, indicating her connection to these online communities.