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Fact check: How does the 2025 murder rate in D.C. compare to the same period in 2024?
1. Summary of the results
The analyses provided suggest that the 2025 murder rate in D.C. is lower compared to the same period in 2024 [1] [2] [3]. According to [1], there was a 15% decrease in homicide rate in 2025 compared to 2024, with 103 homicides in 2025 and 121 in 2024, as of August 28, 2025. Additionally, [2] reports a 19% decrease in the homicide rate in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Furthermore, [3] states that the number of homicides in Washington has fallen sharply since 2023, with a 32% decline in 2024 and another 12% decline in 2025. However, not all sources provide a direct comparison between the two years [4] [5].
2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints
Some sources highlight the importance of interpreting crime data accurately, noting that perceptions of crime and safety can differ from the actual numbers [6]. Moreover, [5] reports that violent crime is down in Washington by almost half when compared to the same 19 days in 2024, but does not provide a direct comparison of the murder rate. It is also worth noting that the homicide rate in D.C. has been steadily climbing since 2012, but has been declining in 2024 and 2025 [6]. The White House reports a homicide rate of 27.3 per 100,000 residents in 2024, but does not provide a direct comparison to the 2025 murder rate [4].
3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement
The original statement may be influenced by biased reporting, as some sources claim that D.C. crime is 'out of control' without providing a direct comparison to the 2025 murder rate [4]. These sources may benefit from portraying a negative image of D.C. crime, potentially to support a particular agenda or policy [4]. On the other hand, sources that report a decrease in the murder rate may be seen as more objective, as they provide a direct comparison between the two years and highlight the importance of accurate interpretation of crime data [1] [2] [3]. The Council on Criminal Justice and CNN may benefit from reporting a decrease in crime, as it could be seen as a positive trend [2] [3].