After Virginia TV Shootings, a Look at the Very Real Threat of Workplace Violence

After the fatal shootings of two journalists in Virginia, INSIDE EDITION is asking: how likely is workplace violence, and how can you recognize it before it happens?

Security consultant Paul Viollis said simmering rage like Vester Flanagan's is not unusual.

Read: Gunman Sent Manifesto After Shooting: 'I've Been a Human Powder Keg Waiting to Go BOOM!'

“Employees that are fired under an at-risk situation like this guy come back to perpetrate acts of violence typically within 72 hours,” he told INSIDE EDITION. 

However, in recent cases, such employees have sometimes returned to commit violence even five years later, he said.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, two million Americans every year are victims of workplace violence.

There are 400 workplace homicides annually, and murder is actually the fourth-leading cause of fatal occupational injuries.

Read: Gunman Dies From Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wound After Killing TV Reporter and Cameraman

Some police departments are even producing instructional videos showing Americans how to deal with a gunman at work.

Experts say there are warning signs that everyone can watch out for to prevent a troubled colleague from reaching the breaking point.

The signs include loud outbursts, direct threats, overt signs of depression, and withdrawl signs, said Violis.  

Watch Below: Gunman Shoots Himself After Killing Reporter and Cameramann