I suppose that they could have something like the "some asshole" initiative[0], where they can report that a thing happened, and provide historical perspective

I suppose that they could have something like the "some asshole" initiative[0], where they can report that a thing happened, and provide historical perspective and statistical analysis, but without identifying who carried out the attack, or what their motives were, or even who the victim(s) were other than "a fortune 500 CEO", or "a regional business owner". They wouldn't be hiding any information. They'd still be reporting that the thing happened. A record of who died is still going to be available in the obituaries, or public FAA reports. The media just don't have to publicise the specific details that tend to inspire copycats. ...but they'd get fewer clicks/views, so it'll never happen :-( [0] http://nonadventures.com/2015/06/20/the-some-of-all-fears/ http://nonadventures.com/2015/06/20/the-some-of-all-fears/