Detroit Sees Historic Drop in Homicides
DETROIT — Homicides in Detroit have reached their lowest levels since the mid-1960s, with preliminary statistics for 2024 revealing a significant decline. The city reported approximately 203 homicides, a decrease of 49 from the previous year, marking the fewest since 188 were recorded in 1965.
This drop in violent crime is part of a broader national trend, as overall violent crime rates continue to decline across the United States. According to an FBI report, violent crime in the U.S. decreased by an estimated 3% in 2023, with murders and non-negligent manslaughter declining nearly 12%.
Mayor Mike Duggan emphasized the impressive nature of these statistics during a recent press briefing. “We’ve achieved numbers that are remarkable,” he stated, recalling a time when the city celebrated reducing homicides to under 400.
In addition to the drop in homicides, nonfatal shootings, assaults, carjackings, and other forms of violent crime are also on the decline in Detroit. Nonfatal shootings decreased significantly, dropping from 804 in 2023 to 606 last year.
Duggan remarked on the positive changes within the community, noting, “These aren’t just numbers. These are real people, mostly young individuals in our community.”
Crime rates across various categories have also shown a downward trend. Carjackings fell from 167 in 2023 to 142, and significant reductions in sexual assaults and robberies were noted as well, with 184 fewer reported robberies compared to the previous year. Other crimes, including burglaries, larcenies, and motor vehicle thefts, have also decreased.
The city’s ongoing partnerships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies have played a vital role in this progress. In particular, community-driven initiatives like ShotStoppers, which launched in 2023, have empowered residents to implement their own strategies for reducing violence. Notable improvements were reported last month, with reductions of 83%, 73%, and 61% in some of the city’s most troubled areas.
Additionally, Detroit has bolstered its police force, bringing 340 new officers onto the streets over the past two years, further enhancing the city’s commitment to public safety.
