Stuff You Should Know Why Postal Employees Go Postal
Jan 21, 2020
In a deep dive into the dark side of postal work, the discussion reveals the alarming peak of post office shootings in the '90s. Delving into the term 'going postal,' the hosts unpack its cultural roots and the toxic workplace conditions that fueled such tragedies. They reflect on societal perceptions, blending humor with serious commentary on workplace violence. Insights into safety challenges and mental health issues within the USPS offer a sobering look at an often misunderstood profession.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
The Edmond Post Office Shooting
- Patrick Sherrill, known as "Crazy Pat," was a troubled postal worker in Oklahoma City.
- In 1986, he shot and killed 14 people at the post office, then himself, without saying a word.
A New Kind of Violence
- The 1986 Edmond shooting was one of the first major mass workplace shootings in the U.S.
- It brought the issue of workplace violence to the forefront of public awareness.
The Going Postal Era
- Between 1986 and 1999, there were 15 incidents of postal workers killing coworkers.
- 34 people died in these incidents over that 13-year period.