politics
What’s behind the ‘historic collapse’ in homicide and violent crime rates in major US cities
Rey Chavis knew it was life or death when his phone rang one day last summer.
TL;DR
- Newark, NJ, recorded 31 homicides in 2025, the lowest number since 1953.
- Homicides dropped approximately 19% nationwide in 2025 compared to the previous year, according to the Major Cities Chiefs Association.
- Other violent crimes, including robbery, rape, and aggravated assault, also saw decreases in many cities.
- Contributing factors to the decline are believed to include more focused policing on gun violence, technological advancements like surveillance cameras and license plate readers, and community-based violence interruption programs.
- Despite the overall trend, some cities like Boston and El Paso experienced an increase in homicides.
- The decrease in crime statistics does not always translate to an enhanced feeling of safety for residents, especially in communities that have experienced recent violent incidents.