Baltimore Sees Significant Reduction in Homicides and Shootings in 2025

According to a press release from the City of Baltimore, the city has experienced a notable decrease in both homicides and nonfatal shootings throughout the year 2025, marking a positive trend in public safety efforts. Through the month of November, Baltimore recorded 15 homicides and 18 shootings. When compared to the same period in the previous year, the city has seen a substantial 29.8% reduction in homicides and a 25.2% decrease in nonfatal shootings.

The cumulative data for 2025 reveals that Baltimore has recorded 127 homicides and 288 nonfatal shootings as of early December. This represents a significant decrease of 54 homicides and 97 nonfatal shootings compared to the corresponding timeframe in the prior year. The current homicide count of 127 is the lowest number of homicides on record in Baltimore City dating back to at least 1970.

These crime reduction figures are attributed to the collaborative efforts of various entities within the city’s violence reduction framework. This includes the Baltimore Police Department, community violence intervention programs, the State’s Attorney’s Office, the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement, the Office of the Attorney General, and the active participation of city residents. These groups are working together towards a shared objective of enhancing safety across Baltimore.

A key initiative contributing to these positive outcomes is Baltimore’s Group Violence Reduction Strategy (GVRS). This strategy, a joint effort between the Baltimore Police Department, the Mayor’s Office, and prosecutors from the State’s Attorney’s Office and the Office of the Attorney General, specifically targets violent social networks that are identified as major drivers of violence in the city. The GVRS aims to balance the provision of services with accountability for individuals at the highest risk of involvement in violence, encouraging them to disengage from violent activities. As of late November 2025, this strategy has resulted in over 577 arrests and has facilitated connections to life coaching and support services for more than 334 individuals through partnerships with YAP, Inc., and Roca.

Furthermore, law enforcement efforts have led to a significant number of firearms being removed from the streets. As of December 1, 2025, officers from the Baltimore Police Department have confiscated over 2,300 firearms in the current year.

Beyond homicides and shootings, other crime categories have also shown decreases. As of November 29, 2025, aggravated assaults have fallen by 11% compared to the previous year. Auto thefts have decreased by 29%, carjackings are down by 36%, and robberies have seen a 29% reduction within the same comparative period.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the City of Baltimore

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