Chicago Murders Down, But Shootings Up in August Compared to Last Year: Police

Patty Wetli | September 5, 2024, 10:47 am

Chicago police barrier. (Kathryn Kirsch / iStock)

Fewer people were murdered in Chicago in August 2024 than the same month last year, but the number of shootings and shooting victims ticked up slightly, according to Chicago Police Department data.

There were 51 homicides citywide in August, a 12% decrease over August 2023. Overall, homicides are down 8.6% year to date, according to police.

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The number of shootings remained nearly the same, however: 232 in August 2024 versus 231 for the same month in 2023. The number of shooting victims increased to 301 last month, compared with 274 victims of gun violence in August 2023.

Police also reported marked drops in robberies and vehicle thefts in August, down 36.5% and 25.6%, respectively. CPD credited its Citywide Robbery Task Force for the reduction in robberies.

Month to date, violent crimes dropped 18%, while property crimes are down 10%, according to police.

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