Crime & Public Safety
Crime & Public Safety

Atlanta murder rate down 25 percent

Atlanta’s murder rate is down 25 percent since new police chief Erika Shields took over at the beginning of the year.

Credit: WSB-TV WSB-TV

Credit: WSB-TV WSB-TV

Atlanta’s murder rate is down 25 percent since new police chief Erika Shields took over at the beginning of the year.
By Christian Boone and Nelson Helm
Nov 1, 2017


A troubling trend appears all but certain to end as Atlanta's homicide rate remains far behind 2016.

Through October 21, the city has recorded 66 homicides -- 22 fewer murders than at this same point a year ago. 

Atlanta had seen an increase in murders for three consecutive years coming into 2017. The city recorded 111 murders in 2016— the first time since 2008 the city’s homicide rate topped the century mark.

To learn more visit the AJC's interactive, which looks at the victim's of homicides in Atlanta this year.

About the Authors

A native Atlantan, Boone joined the AJC staff in 2007. He quickly carved out a niche covering crime stories, assuming the public safety beat in 2014. He's covered some of the biggest trials this decade, from Hemy Neuman to Ross Harris to Chip Olsen, the latter of which was featured on Season 7 of the AJC's award-winning "Breakdown" podcast.

Follow Christian Boone on twitter
Nelson Helm
More Stories

The Latest

Julian Conley listens in court during a jury question on Friday Sept. 26, 2025. The 25-year-old was convicted of murdering 8-year-old Secoriea Turner in July 2020. (Natrice Miller/AJC)

Defendant sentenced to life in Secoriea Turner’s shooting

Mother imprisoned more than a decade gets bond ahead of possible new trial

Fulton sheriff: ‘People will continue to die’ if city ends jail lease

Featured

Krog District, which includes food hall Krog Street Market, has sold to a new owner. (Brandon McKeown/Access Atlanta 2022)

Credit: Brandon McKeown

Popular Beltline hub including Krog Street Market sells to Atlanta firm

Atlanta firm 26th Street Partners has acquired the Krog District. The Eastside Trail destination features more than 40 tenants, including Superica and Ticonderoga Club.

Should Druid Hills High stay or go? DeKalb leaders preparing to make a choice

The long-awaited upgrades to one of DeKalb County's oldest schools are a little closer to reality.

As film industry declines, Georgia has become a hotspot for game shows

Georgia is losing the battle for big-budget films to other countries and states, but it has found a consolation prize: game shows.