Teen Gun Violence: Dallas Seeks Real Solutions

Three high school athletes from Dallas, all aged 17, were shot and killed this year. Their deaths highlight a growing problem: more teens are dying from gun violence in the city. While overall violent crime has dropped, teen homicides have increased. The Dallas Morning News is working to profile each victim, showing the devastating impact on the community. Experts say the solution lies in investing in neighborhoods where violence is highest. This means better lighting, cleaner streets, and most importantly, effective programs to keep kids safe. Teaching self-control and providing positive alternatives can help young people make better choices. The city is also focusing on intervention training in schools. Programs like Becoming a Man (BAM) and Working on Womanhood (WOW) help kids learn to pause before acting. These initiatives aim to combat the complex issues leading to violent crime among youth. But preventing teen homicides requires more than just quick fixes. The community needs to support families and neighborhoods after a tragedy to prevent further violence. With the right strategies, Dallas can help at-risk teens live to see their futures.