News - Chicago homicides decrease for the fourth consecutive year as 2026 shows a decline.

Chicago's struggle with homicides continues as new figures for 2026 reveal a promising downward trend. As of January 18, 2026, 20 people have been slain, marking a decrease of two victims compared to the same period in 2025. This decline contributes to a broader trend, following reductions in both 2023 and 2024, after a spike that accompanied the pandemic and tumultuous police accountability issues nationally. Chicago's homicide statistics, released daily but with a two-week delay in the disclosure of victims' identities, offer a glimpse into the city's battle against violence. Notably, only homicides under specific circumstances are included in Chicago police data, with omissions for self-defense killings and those patrolled by the Illinois State Police on expressways not factored in. Despite the positive trend in homicides and nonfatal shootings, the city struggles with rising robbery and carjacking incidents. These crimes have contributed to a broader sense of insecurity and unrest among residents. Four community areas are noted for the highest counts of homicides in early 2026, although detailed data as of January 18 indicates a spread across the city. Victims often belong to the young, Black male demographic, with gunshot wounds being the predominant cause of death. As the city navigates these challenges, these statistics provide critical insights for ongoing efforts to bolster public safety and support community healing. Sources: City of Chicago, Tribune reporting, and archives