Duke Hospital program a vital resource for families hurt by gun violence

Duke University Hospital launched its hospital-based violence intervention program in September of 2022. In the last 10 months, they've served almost 150 victims of violence.

The program manager said whether they work with one victim or six like they did on Tuesday, it takes a toll.

Duke University Hospital's violence recovery program engages patients who have been victims of violent crime.

The team provides resources to help them physically and mentally recover.

This program extends beyond the hospital. The team works with victims and families for up to a year, trying to decrease the risk of recurring violence.

"Some of our patients already have experienced trauma in their life," said violence recovery program manager Uzuri Holder. "Having this traumatic event kind of makes it a complex trauma."

Holder said her team also takes care of each other.

"We have support in the form of support groups and mental health as well, because we are human," Holder said.

Durham is reeling after five shootings on Tuesday in less than 12 hours.

Four of the victims have serious injuries.

"The blatant disregard for life is challenging, as well as the causes for the violence is very disheartening," Holder said.

The sixth person shot yesterday, who has life-threatening injuries, is just 16 years old.

"There are no words," Holder said when asked about frequently working with victims of gun violence. "Because these are young people who you know are just starting life."

The team at Duke also provides wraparound support to families. Holder said that's especially important for the younger victims.

Durham police have not yet released the names of anyone shot Tuesday or announced any arrests.