New York City records historic low shootings and murders in 2025

In the United States, New York City has achieved a significant milestone with its crime statistics over the first five months of 2025. From January 1 to May 31, the city reported a record low of 264 recorded shootings and 112 homicides. These numbers indicate a notable improvement since the previous lows of 267 shootings and 113 homicides, both marked in 2018 and 2014-2017. Specifically, the month of May brought about historic lows as well, showcasing only 54 shootings and 18 homicides, surpassing the preceding record lows tracked in 2019 when there were 61 shootings and 19 homicides. This downward trend in crime represents not only statistical achievements but also reflects the collective effort of law enforcement and community engagement aimed at increasing safety across the city. Mayor Eric Adams attributed this success to various initiatives committed to enhancing safety, including precision policing and the strategic deployment of resources by the New York Police Department (NYPD). Adams emphasized that from the beginning of his administration, the overarching promise to make the city safer has been upheld and even surpassed. He stated, "These historic achievements are the direct result of our administration's commitment to precision policing, strategic deployment of resources, and the tireless dedication of the brave men and women of the NYPD." Additionally, the police department's efforts have been focused on the removal of illegal firearms from the streets, with approximately 22,000 illegal guns having been confiscated since Adams took office. The declining numbers in crime also stem from broader measures taken by the city to strengthen community dynamics and provide opportunities for the city's youth to prevent crime upstream. Jessica Tisch, the New York City Police Department Commissioner, highlighted the proactive steps resulting in the removal of over 2,200 illegal firearms already this year alone. The executive budget meetings reported on these achievements, echoing the continued commitment of the NYPD to maintaining and prioritizing community safety throughout the summer months. Public sentiment around these improvements has garnered reactions from both residents and local authorities, who express hope for sustained reductions in crime rates. Such historic lows in crime rates encourage families to feel more secure and to reclaim their neighborhoods with confidence. However, officials like Mayor Adams remind citizens that feeling safe is just as crucial as the statistical decrease, reinforcing that further progress is necessary to ensure public comfort alongside actual safety. The strategic summer violence reduction plan announced by the NYPD aims to strengthen the city's crime prevention strategy and continue the momentum of historic safety gains, promising ongoing engagement with the community to foster trust and cooperation.