Baltimore Reports Historic Decline in Homicides for Early 2025

Baltimore has recorded the fewest number of homicides in the first five months of any year on record, according to data released Monday. Mayor Brandon M. Scott announced the historic milestone, noting a 23.6% drop in homicides and a 23.4% decline in non-fatal shootings compared to the same period last year. The figures reflect a continuing trend of reduced violence throughout the city under initiatives spearheaded by the Mayor’s administration.

Since taking office, Mayor Scott has overseen a broad reduction in crime across multiple categories. As of June 2, auto thefts have decreased by 33%, robberies have fallen by 22%, arson incidents have dropped by 19%, and carjackings are down by 11% year-over-year. Homicides and non-fatal shootings have seen more substantial long-term decreases of 40% and 43%, respectively, since 2020. In addition, April 2025 recorded the lowest number of homicides for any single month in Baltimore’s history.

City officials attribute the reductions to the Comprehensive Violence Prevention Plan, coordinated efforts among the Baltimore Police Department, community violence intervention programs, and partnerships across the criminal justice system. The Mayor emphasized that while the data signals progress, efforts to combat violence will persist, with a focus on evidence-based strategies designed to sustain and deepen these gains.

Baltimore’s performance stands out in a national context where many cities continue to grapple with rising crime rates. The city’s decline in violent incidents offers a model for urban centers seeking to implement similar preventative frameworks. The Mayor’s office indicated that ongoing support for intervention ecosystems and law enforcement collaboration remains critical to maintaining momentum.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from the Office of the Mayor, Baltimore City

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