Gun violence is more than a public safety issue. It is a public health challenge that affects the health, well-being and resilience of entire communities.

In this episode of the UB Medicine Podcast, host Allison Brashear, MD, MBA, is joined by Adrienne Garr, executive director of Buffalo's Office of Gun Violence Prevention, and Eddie Payne, community coordinator with the Erie County Department of Central Police Services, to discuss how Buffalo is working to prevent violence, support healing and strengthen community partnerships.

Together, they explore the lasting impact of the May 14, 2022, Tops Friendly Markets shooting, the importance of viewing violence through a public health lens, and the collaborative efforts helping individuals, families and neighborhoods recover from trauma. The conversation highlights violence prevention, trauma recovery, community trust and the critical role health professionals, educators, advocates and residents play in creating safer, healthier communities.

The episode also previews the 2026 Rise, Respond and Rebuild Conference at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, a gathering dedicated to advancing healing, resilience and community-driven solutions to violence.