Homicide as a form of lethal violence has occupied a dominant place in criminological research over several decades. Researchers have explained the causes from various theoretical frameworks. Two other forms of lethal violence, suicide and motor vehicle fatalities, have been largely ignored. This study examines all three forms of lethal violence in Phoenix, AZ, during the period 1950-1988. The violent deaths have been tested from the theoretical perspectives of social disorganization and social conflict. Findings from this study suggest that the social conditions which influence homicide are the same as those that influence other forms of lethal violence. Specifically, the statistical analysis found support for the social conflict theory (minority population and infant mortality) as a significant predictor of lethal behavior, as measured by homicides, suicides, and motor vehicle fatalities. Tables, notes, references