Responding to Terrorism Victims: Oklahoma City and Beyond

The April 19, 1995, bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building (Murrah Building) in Oklahoma City sent shock waves throughout America. This event was the most devastating incident of domestic terrorism in our Nation’s history. The shock of this terrorist act was magnified by its location—the very center of our country. “This is the place, after all, where terrorists don’t venture. The Heartland. Wednesday [April 19] changed everything” (The Daily Oklahoman, April 20, 1995). The effect of the bombing was far reaching—extending well beyond the borders of Oklahoma. It created mass casualties and injuries, affecting not only the immediate victims, survivors, and the Oklahoma City community but also the entire Nation.

This report identifies the special measures needed to protect the rights and meet the needs of victims of a large-scale terrorist attack involving mass casualties. In particular, it demonstrates efforts required to ensure an effective response to victims’ rights and their short- and long-term emotional and psychological needs as an integral part of a comprehensive response to terrorism cases involving mass casualties. This report does not attempt to portray a complete picture of everything that was done for the victims, and the recommendations are not intended to present a comprehensive plan for addressing the needs of victims. It is a place to begin, based upon the experiences of OVC in working with victims and providing resources for assistance.