The Rising Tide of Targeted Violence: Casinos, Public Spaces, and the Future of Security
A chilling statistic is emerging: incidents of targeted violence – attacks specifically aimed at an individual or individuals – are on the rise, even as overall crime rates in some areas decline. The recent shooting at the MGM National Harbor casino in Maryland, where a gunman seemingly “lay in wait” for his victim, underscores this disturbing trend and forces a critical re-evaluation of security protocols in public gathering places. This isn’t simply about random acts of violence; it’s about premeditation, intent, and a growing willingness to bring conflict into spaces once considered relatively safe.
The MGM National Harbor Shooting: A Case Study in Targeted Attacks
On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, a shooting in the MGM National Harbor food court left one man dead. Prince George’s County Police Chief George Nader confirmed the incident was a targeted attack, with the suspect appearing to specifically seek out the victim. The lack of any exchange between the two men before the shooting, coupled with the suspect’s deliberate approach, paints a picture of a pre-planned act. While authorities are still investigating the motive, the event highlights a concerning shift in how conflicts are being resolved – or, more accurately, not resolved – before they escalate to violence.
Beyond Casinos: The Expanding Threat Landscape
The MGM National Harbor shooting isn’t an isolated incident. Similar attacks, like the recent ambush in North Carolina linked to anti-LGBTQ conspiracies, demonstrate a broadening scope of targeted violence. These incidents are occurring in diverse locations – workplaces, public events, even residential neighborhoods – and are often fueled by personal grievances, ideological extremism, or organized criminal activity. The common thread is a deliberate targeting of specific individuals, rather than indiscriminate violence. This trend necessitates a move beyond traditional security measures focused on preventing mass shootings and towards strategies that identify and mitigate the risk of directed attacks.
The Role of Surveillance and Predictive Policing
One key area of development will be the increased sophistication of surveillance technology. While concerns about privacy are legitimate and must be addressed, advancements in AI-powered video analytics offer the potential to identify suspicious behavior patterns and flag potential threats before they materialize. This isn’t about creating a “Minority Report” scenario, but about leveraging technology to enhance human observation and intervention. For example, algorithms can be trained to recognize loitering, unusual gait patterns, or individuals repeatedly scanning their surroundings – behaviors that, while not inherently criminal, could indicate pre-attack planning.
However, technology alone isn’t enough. Effective predictive policing requires a nuanced understanding of local crime trends, social dynamics, and potential risk factors. It also demands strong community partnerships and a commitment to addressing the root causes of violence. As Chief Nader noted, violent crime in the National Harbor area is down 32% this year, suggesting that proactive policing strategies can be effective, but they must be continually adapted to evolving threats.
The Future of Security: Layered Protection and Behavioral Analysis
The future of security in public spaces will likely involve a layered approach, combining physical security measures (e.g., security personnel, access control systems) with technological solutions and behavioral analysis. This includes:
- Enhanced Training for Security Personnel: Focusing on recognizing pre-attack indicators and de-escalation techniques.
- Improved Information Sharing: Between law enforcement agencies, private security firms, and even social media platforms (while respecting privacy concerns).
- Behavioral Threat Assessment Teams: Dedicated teams trained to identify and assess potential threats based on behavioral patterns and available intelligence.
- Cybersecurity Integration: Recognizing that online radicalization and threats often precede real-world violence.
Casinos, like the MGM National Harbor, are particularly vulnerable due to their high visibility, large crowds, and the presence of significant amounts of cash. However, the principles of layered security and behavioral analysis apply to a wide range of public spaces, from shopping malls and airports to schools and workplaces. The goal is to create an environment where potential attackers are deterred, and any suspicious activity is quickly detected and addressed.
Adapting to a New Reality
The rise in targeted violence represents a significant challenge to public safety. It demands a proactive, intelligence-led approach that goes beyond traditional security measures. While the MGM National Harbor shooting is a tragic reminder of the risks we face, it also presents an opportunity to learn, adapt, and build more resilient communities. The key is to recognize that security is not a static concept, but an ongoing process of assessment, innovation, and collaboration. What steps will your organization take to proactively address the threat of targeted violence? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
