Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025
Albuquerque continues to face significant challenges with violent crime in 2025, though recent data shows encouraging signs of improvement. The city, which serves as New Mexico’s largest metropolitan area with approximately 560,000 residents, has experienced fluctuating homicide rates over the past several years. As of September 29, 2025, the Albuquerque Police Department has investigated 55 homicide victims across 53 separate cases, representing a substantial decrease from the 73 victims recorded during the same period in 2024. This marks a 24.7% reduction in homicides year-over-year, indicating that law enforcement strategies and community intervention programs may be yielding positive results in the ongoing battle against violent crime.
The murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 reflects broader trends in urban violence across the United States, where factors including poverty, substance abuse, domestic disputes, and gang-related activities continue to drive homicide statistics. Despite the concerning numbers, the Albuquerque Police Department has demonstrated impressive investigative effectiveness, with a clearance rate of 83% for 2025 cases solved thus far. This clearance rate significantly exceeds national averages and demonstrates the department’s commitment to bringing justice to victims’ families. Understanding these statistics becomes essential for residents, policymakers, and law enforcement agencies working collaboratively to create safer communities throughout the Duke City and surrounding Bernalillo County areas.
Key Facts About Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025
Fact Category | 2025 Statistics | 2024 Comparison | Details |
---|---|---|---|
Total Homicide Victims | 55 victims | 73 victims | As of September 29, 2025 |
Total Homicide Cases | 53 cases | Data through Sept 29 | Multiple victims in some cases |
Year-over-Year Change | -24.7% decrease | 18 fewer victims | Significant improvement |
First Quarter Homicides | 34 homicides | 47 homicides | January-June period, -28% decrease |
Case Clearance Rate | 83% solved | 44 of 53 cases | Well above national average |
Active Unsolved Cases | 9 cases active | As of Sept 29, 2025 | Ongoing investigations |
Primary Weapon Used | 39 firearm deaths | 71% of total | Firearms remain dominant weapon |
Leading Motivation | 20 cases | Individual Disrespect | Top contributing factor |
Justifiable Homicides | 10 investigations | Self-defense cases | Not included in murder count |
Murder Suspects Charged | 106 total suspects | 63 from 2025 cases | 43 from previous years |
Data Source: City of Albuquerque Police Department Crime Statistics (Updated September 29, 2025)
The statistics reveal critical insights into the murder rate in Albuquerque 2025, demonstrating both progress and persistent challenges. The 24.7% reduction in homicides compared to 2024 represents the most significant year-over-year improvement in recent memory, with 18 fewer victims through September. This decline follows several years of elevated homicide numbers, including 81 homicides in 2023 and 117 in 2022, marking a positive trajectory for public safety efforts. The first quarter data showing 34 homicides between January and June with a 28% decrease from the prior year’s 47 homicides established an encouraging trend that has continued through the fall months.
The investigative success rate stands as particularly noteworthy, with the Albuquerque Police Department solving 44 of 53 cases for an 83% clearance rate. This performance substantially exceeds the national average clearance rate for homicides, which typically hovers around 50-60% according to FBI data. Beyond current year cases, APD has demonstrated exceptional commitment to cold case investigations, solving 18 cases from previous years in 2025, dating back as far as 2012. These investigations have resulted in charges against 43 suspects from previous-year cases, bringing long-awaited justice to families. The department has charged, arrested, or identified 106 murder suspects total this year, with 63 suspects connected to 2025 cases, demonstrating aggressive prosecution strategies alongside investigative excellence.
Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025 by Month
Month | Cases | Victims | Cases Solved | Clearance Rate | Primary Weapon |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
January 2025 | 3 cases | 3 victims | 3 solved | 100% | 2 Lethal Cutting, 1 Firearm |
February 2025 | 2 cases | 2 victims | 2 solved | 100% | 1 Lethal Cutting, 1 Firearm |
March 2025 | 6 cases | 6 victims | 5 solved | 83.3% | 5 Firearms, 1 Active |
April 2025 | 6 cases | 6 victims | 5 solved | 83.3% | 5 Firearms, 1 Vehicle |
May 2025 | 8 cases | 10 victims | 6 solved | 75% | 6 Firearms, 2 Lethal Cutting |
June 2025 | 8 cases | 8 victims | 8 solved | 100% | 6 Firearms, 2 Blunt Objects |
July 2025 | 7 cases | 7 victims | 6 solved | 85.7% | 6 Firearms, 1 Lethal Cutting |
August 2025 | 8 cases | 8 victims | 5 solved | 62.5% | 6 Firearms, 1 Blunt Object |
September 2025 | 5 cases | 5 victims | 4 solved | 80% | 4 Firearms, 1 Child Abuse |
Total 2025 | 53 cases | 55 victims | 44 solved | 83% | 39 Firearms (71%) |
Data Source: City of Albuquerque Police Department Homicide Statistics (September 29, 2025)
The monthly breakdown of the murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 reveals significant temporal patterns and investigative outcomes throughout the year. May 2025 emerged as the deadliest month with 8 cases resulting in 10 victims, including one tragic incident on May 24th at Georgia Street NE where 3 victims were killed in a single case. Following closely, both June and August recorded 8 cases each with 8 victims per month, demonstrating that mid-year months experienced heightened violence. Conversely, February 2025 recorded the lowest violence with only 2 cases and 2 victims, while January had 3 cases with 3 victims, suggesting early winter months saw reduced homicide activity.
The clearance rates by month demonstrate exceptional investigative work during certain periods. Both January, February, and June achieved perfect 100% clearance rates, meaning every homicide case reported during these months was solved. March and April maintained strong 83.3% clearance rates despite increased caseloads. August presented the greatest investigative challenge with only a 62.5% clearance rate, leaving 3 cases active from that month alone. The weapon analysis confirms that firearms dominated as the murder weapon throughout 2025, accounting for 39 of 55 deaths (71%), while lethal cutting instruments were used in 7 incidents and blunt objects in 3 cases. This firearm prevalence aligns with national urban violence trends and underscores the ongoing gun violence epidemic affecting Albuquerque communities.
Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025 by Case Motivation
Motivation Category | Number of Cases | Percentage of Total | 2025 Status |
---|---|---|---|
Individual Disrespect | 20 cases | 37.7% | Leading cause |
Drug Related | 5 cases | 9.4% | Narcotics involvement |
Robbery | 6 cases | 11.3% | Property-motivated |
Domestic Violence | 6 cases | 11.3% | Intimate partner violence |
Unknown | 6 cases | 11.3% | Under investigation |
Child Abuse | 3 cases | 5.7% | Victims under 18 |
Violence on Homeless | 2 cases | 3.8% | Vulnerable population |
Road Rage | 2 cases | 3.8% | Traffic-related violence |
Retaliation/Revenge | 1 case | 1.9% | Retaliatory killing |
Random Victim | 1 case | 1.9% | No prior connection |
Mental Health Related | 1 case | 1.9% | Psychological factors |
Data Source: City of Albuquerque Police Department Homicide Case Motivation 2025 YTD
The motivational analysis of the murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 reveals disturbing patterns about the nature of violence in the city. Individual disrespect stands as the overwhelming primary motivation, accounting for 20 cases or 37.7% of all homicides. This category encompasses disputes, arguments, and perceived slights that escalate to lethal violence, reflecting deeper societal issues around conflict resolution and violence normalization. The prevalence of disrespect-motivated murders suggests that many lives could potentially be saved through enhanced community violence intervention programs, anger management resources, and conflict de-escalation training initiatives. These deaths often stem from avoidable confrontations that tragically spiral out of control due to easy firearm access and cultural factors glorifying violent responses to perceived challenges.
Property-motivated crimes including robbery (6 cases, 11.3%) and drug-related incidents (5 cases, 9.4%) collectively account for 11 cases or 20.7% of homicides, highlighting the intersection between economic desperation, substance abuse, and violent crime. Domestic violence contributed to 6 cases (11.3%), representing intimate partner violence and family disputes that turned deadly. These cases particularly concern advocates because domestic violence homicides often have warning signs and prior incidents that, with proper intervention, might prevent fatal outcomes. The 6 unknown motivation cases (11.3%) remain under active investigation as detectives work to establish connections and motives.
Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025 Weapon Analysis
Weapon Type | Number of Deaths | Percentage | Trend Analysis |
---|---|---|---|
Firearm | 39 deaths | 70.9% | Dominant weapon category |
Lethal Cutting Weapon | 7 deaths | 12.7% | Knives and sharp objects |
Blunt Object | 3 deaths | 5.5% | Multiple incident types |
Blunt Force | 3 deaths | 5.5% | Physical assault |
Vehicle | 1 death | 1.8% | Vehicular homicide |
Child Abuse | 1 death | 1.8% | Shaken baby case |
Shaken Baby | 1 death | 1.8% | Infant victim |
Data Source: City of Albuquerque Police Department Homicide Case Weapons YTD 2025
The weapon analysis for the murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 demonstrates the overwhelming dominance of firearms in lethal violence, accounting for 39 deaths or 70.9% of all homicides through September. This firearms prevalence exceeds national averages and reflects New Mexico’s relatively permissive gun laws, widespread firearm ownership, and the proliferation of illegal weapons in criminal networks. The 39 firearm deaths include various weapon types ranging from handguns to rifles, though specific firearm classifications are not publicly detailed in the police statistics. This disturbing trend underscores why gun violence reduction initiatives, including shot detection technology, gun buyback programs, and enhanced background check enforcement, remain critical components of the city’s public safety strategy moving forward.
Lethal cutting weapons including knives, machetes, and other bladed instruments accounted for 7 deaths (12.7%), representing the second most common murder weapon category. These incidents often occur during close-range confrontations and domestic disputes where perpetrators use readily available household items or carried weapons. The intimate nature of knife attacks frequently indicates personal relationships between victims and offenders, distinguishing these cases from more impersonal firearm violence. Blunt objects and blunt force collectively caused 6 deaths (11%), involving attacks with items like baseball bats, hammers, and fists/feet in severe beatings resulting in fatal injuries.
Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025 Clearance Rate Analysis
Case Status Category | Number | Percentage | Details |
---|---|---|---|
2025 Cases Solved | 44 cases | 83% | Current year investigations |
2025 Active Cases | 9 cases | 17% | Ongoing investigations |
Total 2025 Cases | 53 cases | 100% | Through September 29 |
Previous Year Cases Solved in 2025 | 18 cases | Various years | Cold case clearances |
2024 Cases Solved in 2025 | 8 cases | 14 suspects | Recent year progress |
2022 Cases Solved in 2025 | 2 cases | 3 suspects | Two-year-old cases |
2021 Cases Solved in 2025 | 3 cases | 3 suspects | Three-year-old cases |
2020 Cases Solved in 2025 | 1 case | 1 suspect | Four-year-old case |
2019 Cases Solved in 2025 | 1 case | 2 suspects | Five-year-old case |
2018 Cases Solved in 2025 | 2 cases | 2 suspects | Six-year-old cases |
2012 Case Solved in 2025 | 1 case | 2 suspects deceased | Oldest cold case cleared |
Data Source: City of Albuquerque Police Department Investigation Updates 2025
The clearance rate analysis for the murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 showcases exceptional investigative performance by the Albuquerque Police Department’s Homicide Unit. With 44 of 53 cases solved, the department achieved an impressive 83% clearance rate for current year homicides, substantially exceeding the national average of approximately 50-60% for homicide clearances. This high success rate reflects dedicated detective work, advanced forensic capabilities, community cooperation in providing critical information, and effective inter-agency collaboration between APD, the District Attorney’s office, and federal law enforcement partners. The 9 active cases remaining under investigation include several recent incidents from late summer and early fall where leads are still being pursued and evidence continues to be analyzed.
Beyond current year performance, APD demonstrated remarkable commitment to justice by clearing 18 cases from previous years during 2025. These cold case investigations resulted in charges against 43 suspects spanning incidents from as far back as 2012, when a case was finally solved this year with 2 suspects identified, both now deceased. The department solved 8 cases from 2024 with 14 suspects charged, showing that many investigations extend beyond calendar year boundaries but ultimately achieve successful prosecution. Two cases from 2022 yielded 3 suspects, while three cases from 2021 led to 3 suspect charges, demonstrating persistent investigative efforts that never truly close a case until resolution occurs.
Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025 Quarterly Trends
Time Period | Homicides | Cases | Victims | Change vs 2024 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Q1 2025 (Jan-Mar) | 11 victims | 11 cases | Jan: 3, Feb: 2, Mar: 6 | Data through March 31 |
Q2 2025 (Apr-Jun) | 23 victims | 22 cases | Apr: 6, May: 10, Jun: 8 | Highest quarter |
Q3 2025 (Jul-Sep) | 20 victims | 20 cases | Jul: 7, Aug: 8, Sep: 5 | Third quarter total |
Q4 2025 (Oct-Dec) | 1 victim | 1 case | Partial data Oct only | Updated through Sept 29 |
First Half 2025 | 34 homicides | 33 cases | January-June period | -28% vs 2024 |
Full Year 2024 | 73 victims | Comparison data | Through Sept 29, 2024 | Benchmark comparison |
Full Year 2023 | 81 victims | Historical context | Complete year data | Previous year total |
Data Source: City of Albuquerque Police Department Chief’s Monthly Snapshot and Homicide Statistics
The quarterly trend analysis of the murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 reveals significant seasonal variations and concerning mid-year escalation patterns. Quarter 1 (January-March) recorded 11 victims across 11 cases, representing the calmest period with relatively low homicide activity during winter months when colder weather and holidays may reduce street-level confrontations and outdoor criminal activity. Quarter 2 (April-June) witnessed dramatic escalation with 23 victims in 22 cases, making it the deadliest three-month period of the year and accounting for 41.8% of all 2025 homicides despite representing only 25% of the year. This spring-to-summer surge aligns with national crime patterns where warmer weather correlates with increased violent crime as more people spend time outdoors and social interactions intensify.
Quarter 3 (July-September) maintained elevated violence levels with 20 victims in 20 cases, though slightly declining from Q2’s peak. The combined Q2 and Q3 period encompassing six months from April through September accounted for 43 of 55 total victims (78.2%), demonstrating that warm weather months drive the majority of Albuquerque’s annual homicide statistics. Quarter 4 data remains incomplete with only one recorded case through the September 29th reporting cutoff, though October-December typically sees declining violence as temperatures drop and year-end holidays approach.
Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025 Comparative Analysis
Comparison Metric | 2025 Data | 2024 Data | 2023 Data | Change |
---|---|---|---|---|
Total Homicides (Jan-Sept) | 55 victims | 73 victims | 81 victims (full year) | -24.7% from 2024 |
Total Cases | 53 cases | Data through Sept | 2023 comparison | -18 fewer victims |
First Quarter (Jan-Jun) | 34 homicides | 47 homicides | Previous comparison | -28% decrease |
Clearance Rate | 83% | Comparison data | National ~50-60% | Well above average |
Firearm Deaths | 39 deaths | 71% of total | Consistent trend | Dominant weapon |
Active Cases | 9 cases | 17% unsolved | Ongoing work | Investigation continues |
Data Source: City of Albuquerque Police Department Multi-Year Comparison Data
The comparative analysis of the murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 against previous years demonstrates significant improvement in reducing lethal violence while maintaining exceptional investigative performance. The 24.7% reduction from 2024’s 73 victims to 2025’s 55 victims through September represents the most substantial year-over-year improvement in recent history, potentially breaking a multi-year pattern of elevated homicide rates. When compared to 2023’s full-year total of 81 homicides, the 2025 pace suggests the city could finish with approximately 70-75 homicides if current trends continue, representing meaningful progress though still concerning absolute numbers for a city of Albuquerque’s size.
The first-half comparison showing 34 homicides versus 47 in 2024 established early momentum with a 28% decrease that signaled changing dynamics in street violence, law enforcement effectiveness, and possibly community intervention impacts. This early-year success created optimism that sustained strategies could yield continued reductions. The 83% clearance rate substantially exceeds both previous internal performance and national benchmarks where many departments struggle to solve even 50% of homicides. This investigative excellence provides deterrent value as potential offenders recognize high apprehension probabilities.
Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025 Violent Crime Context
Violent Crime Category | 2025 (Jan-Jun) | 2024 (Jan-Jun) | Percent Change |
---|---|---|---|
Aggravated Assault | 2,105 incidents | 2,362 incidents | -11% |
Sex Crimes | 240 incidents | 271 incidents | -11% |
Robbery | 364 incidents | 447 incidents | -19% |
Homicides | 34 incidents | 47 incidents | -28% |
Total Violent Crimes | 2,709 incidents | 3,080 incidents | -12% |
Data Source: City of Albuquerque Police Department Chief’s Monthly Snapshot January-June 2025
The broader violent crime context surrounding the murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 reveals comprehensive improvements across all major categories during the first half of the year. Total violent crimes decreased by 12% from 3,080 incidents in the January-June 2024 period to 2,709 incidents during the same 2025 timeframe, representing 371 fewer violent crime incidents affecting Albuquerque residents. This overall decline suggests that violence reduction strategies are yielding results beyond just homicides, potentially indicating broader cultural shifts, enhanced law enforcement effectiveness, or successful intervention programs preventing violence escalation.
Aggravated assault, which typically represents the largest violent crime category and often precedes homicides when disputes escalate, decreased by 11% from 2,362 to 2,105 incidents. This 257-incident reduction in serious assaults that don’t result in death may contribute to lower homicide numbers, as effective medical trauma care, quicker police response, or de-escalation before situations become lethal could prevent assaults from becoming murders. Robbery showed the most dramatic improvement with a 19% decrease from 447 to 364 incidents, dropping by 83 robberies and suggesting either more effective property crime prevention, enhanced prosecution deterring would-be robbers, or changing criminal patterns.
Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025 Arrest Statistics
Arrest Category | 2025 (Jan-Jun) | 2024 (Jan-Jun) | Percent Change | Total Arrests |
---|---|---|---|---|
Felony Arrests | 2,580 arrests | 2,100 arrests | +23% | Serious charges |
Misdemeanor Arrests | 5,763 arrests | 5,108 arrests | +13% | Lesser offenses |
Felony Warrant Arrests | 3,266 arrests | 2,921 arrests | +12% | Outstanding warrants |
Misdemeanor Warrant Arrests | 996 arrests | 675 arrests | +48% | Minor warrants |
Total New Arrests | 8,343 arrests | 7,208 arrests | +16% | Combined categories |
Total Warrant Arrests | 4,262 arrests | 3,596 arrests | +19% | All warrant types |
Data Source: City of Albuquerque Police Department Chief’s Monthly Snapshot January-June 2025
The arrest statistics for the murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 context demonstrate aggressive law enforcement activity that correlates with reduced violent crime rates. Felony arrests increased by 23% from 2,100 to 2,580, representing 480 additional serious crime arrests during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. This substantial increase in felony apprehensions suggests enhanced investigative capabilities, proactive policing strategies, and more effective targeting of violent offenders who pose the greatest threats to community safety. The rise in arrests while violent crime decreases indicates that police are successfully removing dangerous individuals from streets before they can commit additional violent acts.
Misdemeanor arrests also increased by 13% from 5,108 to 5,763, adding 655 arrests for lesser offenses. This uptick reflects quality-of-life enforcement strategies addressing minor crimes that can escalate to more serious violence if left unchecked. Total new arrests combining felonies and misdemeanors reached 8,343 in the first half of 2025, up 16% from 7,208 in 2024, demonstrating overall increased enforcement activity across crime categories. The department’s focus on arresting active offenders appears to correlate directly with the 28% reduction in homicides during the same period.
Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025 Property Crime Trends
Property Crime Category | 2025 (Jan-Jun) | 2024 (Jan-Jun) | Percent Change | Incidents Reduced |
---|---|---|---|---|
Auto Theft (APD) | 1,336 thefts | 2,213 thefts | -40% | 877 fewer |
Auto Theft (240) | 1,871 thefts | 3,023 thefts | -38% | 1,152 fewer |
Auto Burglary | 1,755 incidents | 2,117 incidents | -17% | 362 fewer |
Residential Burglary | 983 incidents | 1,145 incidents | -14% | 162 fewer |
Commercial Burglary | 754 incidents | 993 incidents | -24% | 239 fewer |
Shoplifting | 3,539 incidents | 4,146 incidents | -15% | 607 fewer |
Total Property Crimes | 10,238 incidents | 13,637 incidents | -25% | 3,399 fewer |
Data Source: City of Albuquerque Police Department Chief’s Monthly Snapshot January-June 2025
The property crime statistics surrounding the murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 reveal remarkable improvements across all categories, with total property crimes declining by 25% from 13,637 to 10,238 incidents, representing 3,399 fewer property crime victims during the first half of 2025. This comprehensive reduction demonstrates that public safety improvements extend far beyond violent crime, creating safer communities where residents face reduced risks of both person and property victimization. The property crime decline may also contribute indirectly to homicide reduction, as many murders stem from robberies, burglaries, and other property crimes that escalate to lethal violence when victims resist or confrontations occur.
Auto theft showed the most dramatic improvements, with APD-classified auto thefts dropping 40% from 2,213 to 1,336, eliminating 877 vehicle thefts. The broader 240-classified auto theft category decreased 38% from 3,023 to 1,871, preventing 1,152 vehicle thefts. These substantial reductions follow targeted task force operations, enhanced prosecution of auto theft rings, and technology investments including license plate readers and bait car programs. Commercial burglary declined 24% from 993 to 754 incidents, reducing 239 business break-ins that often target pharmacies, gun stores, and retailers, preventing stolen goods and weapons from fueling additional crimes.
Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025 Emergency Response Data
Call Priority Level | 2025 (Jan-Jun) | 2024 (Jan-Jun) | Percent Change | Call Volume |
---|---|---|---|---|
Priority 1 (Emergency) | 3,113 calls | 3,501 calls | -11% | Life-threatening situations |
Priority 2 (Urgent) | 120,936 calls | 125,262 calls | -3% | Crimes in progress |
Priority 3 (Routine) | 36,606 calls | 33,782 calls | +8% | Non-emergency reports |
Priority 4 (Low Priority) | 22,514 calls | 23,514 calls | -4% | Minor incidents |
Priority 5 (Administrative) | 57,056 calls | 57,961 calls | -2% | Administrative matters |
Total Calls for Service | 240,225 calls | 244,020 calls | -2% | All call categories |
Data Source: City of Albuquerque Police Department Chief’s Monthly Snapshot January-June 2025
The emergency response statistics related to the murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 demonstrate declining demand for highest-priority police responses, correlating with reduced violent crime rates. Priority 1 emergency calls involving life-threatening situations decreased 11% from 3,501 to 3,113, representing 388 fewer critical emergencies requiring immediate police response. This reduction in the most serious calls aligns with the 28% decrease in homicides and 11% reduction in aggravated assaults, suggesting fewer violent confrontations requiring emergency intervention. The decline in Priority 1 calls allows officers to respond more quickly to genuine emergencies and reduces strain on department resources.
Priority 2 urgent calls for crimes in progress declined 3% from 125,262 to 120,936, reducing call volume by 4,326 incidents. Combined with Priority 1 reductions, the decrease in highest-urgency calls totaling 4,714 fewer emergencies demonstrates meaningful improvements in public safety that directly impact police workload. Total calls for service across all priority levels decreased 2% from 244,020 to 240,225, representing 3,795 fewer police responses and indicating overall reduced crime and disorder throughout the city.
Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025 Historical Crime Trends
Year | Property Crime | Violent Crime | Total Crimes | Year-over-Year Change |
---|---|---|---|---|
2014 | 30,523 incidents | 4,934 incidents | 35,457 total | Baseline year |
2015 | 34,082 incidents | 5,410 incidents | 39,492 total | +11.4% increase |
2016 | 38,639 incidents | 6,248 incidents | 44,887 total | +13.7% increase |
2017 | 41,438 incidents | 7,687 incidents | 49,125 total | +9.4% increase |
2018 | 34,898 incidents | 7,997 incidents | 42,895 total | -12.7% decrease |
2019 | 31,974 incidents | 7,995 incidents | 39,969 total | -6.8% decrease |
2020 | 28,354 incidents | 7,875 incidents | 36,229 total | -9.4% decrease |
2021 | 25,138 incidents | 8,439 incidents | 33,577 total | -7.3% decrease |
2022 | 27,068 incidents | 8,016 incidents | 35,084 total | +4.5% increase |
2023 | 26,365 incidents | 7,575 incidents | 33,940 total | -3.3% decrease |
Data Source: City of Albuquerque Police Department Crime Trends 2014-2023
The historical crime trend analysis for the murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 context reveals dramatic fluctuations over the past decade, with total crimes peaking in 2017 at 49,125 incidents before declining to 33,940 by 2023. The period from 2014 to 2017 witnessed consistent increases, with total crime rising 38.5% from 35,457 to 49,125 incidents over three years. This alarming escalation saw property crimes surge from 30,523 to 41,438 (35.7% increase) and violent crimes jump from 4,934 to 7,687 (55.8% increase), creating a public safety crisis that demanded comprehensive intervention strategies.
The turning point occurred in 2018 when total crimes dropped 12.7% to 42,895, marking the beginning of a sustained decline that continued through 2021. By 2021, Albuquerque recorded its lowest total crime count of the decade at 33,577 incidents, representing a 31.7% reduction from the 2017 peak. However, violent crime remained stubbornly elevated, actually reaching its decade high of 8,439 incidents in 2021 despite property crime improvements. This pattern demonstrates that while property crime prevention strategies succeeded, violent crime including homicides required different approaches addressing interpersonal conflicts, gang activity, and substance abuse. 2022 saw a slight 4.5% uptick to 35,084 total crimes before 2023 resumed downward trends with 33,940 incidents, setting the stage for the continued improvements observed in 2025 data showing 25% property crime reductions and 28% homicide decreases.
Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025 Justifiable Homicide Investigations
Investigation Type | Number of Cases | Status | Location Details |
---|---|---|---|
Justifiable Homicides | 10 cases | Under investigation | Self-defense determinations |
Tramway Blvd NE – 557 | 1 case | Investigated | Northeast location |
Columbia Dr SE – 1333 | 1 case | Investigated | Southeast location |
Ponderosa Ave NE – 2912 | 1 case | Investigated | Northeast location |
Tramway Blvd NE – 901 | 1 case | Investigated | Northeast location |
San Mateo Blvd NE – 5324 | 1 case | Investigated | Northeast location |
Coors Blvd NW – 2550 | 1 case | Investigated | Northwest location |
Antler Tool Rd SW – 10720 | 1 case | Investigated | Southwest location |
Cochiti Rd SE – 6404 | 1 case | Investigated | Southeast location |
Menaul Blvd NW – 1515 | 1 case | Investigated | Northwest location |
Osuna Rd NE – 9500 | 1 case | Investigated | Northeast location |
Data Source: City of Albuquerque Police Department Justifiable Homicide Investigations 2025
The justifiable homicide investigations for the murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 represent 10 separate cases being investigated as self-defense situations where individuals used lethal force in response to immediate threats to their lives or the lives of others. These cases are not included in the 55 homicide victim count, as they involve legally justified killings rather than criminal murders. The distinction between justifiable homicides and criminal homicides remains critical for accurate crime statistics, as conflating the two categories would misrepresent actual murder rates and public safety conditions. Each justifiable homicide undergoes thorough investigation by APD detectives and review by the District Attorney’s office to determine whether the use of deadly force met legal standards for self-defense.
The geographic distribution of justifiable homicides shows 6 cases in northeast Albuquerque, 2 in northwest locations, 1 in southeast, and 1 in southwest areas. The concentration of 6 incidents (60%) in the northeast quadrant, including multiple cases on Tramway Boulevard, suggests this area experiences higher rates of both criminal violence and defensive responses by residents and business owners. Notable locations include commercial corridors like San Mateo Boulevard, Coors Boulevard, and Menaul Boulevard, where businesses may face robbery attempts leading to defensive shootings. The Ponderosa Avenue case on March 11th also appears in the criminal homicide database, indicating complex circumstances requiring careful legal determination.
Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025 Multi-Victim Incidents
Incident Date | Location | Victims | Case Status | Weapon Used |
---|---|---|---|---|
May 24, 2025 | 2805 Georgia St NE | 3 victims | Solved | Firearm |
Single-victim cases | Various locations | 52 victims | Various statuses | Multiple weapons |
Total 2025 | 53 cases | 55 victims | 44 solved | Statistics |
Data Source: City of Albuquerque Police Department Homicide Statistics 2025
The multi-victim incident analysis for the murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 reveals that one particularly tragic case accounts for 3 victims, making it the deadliest single incident of the year. The May 24, 2025 shooting at 2805 Georgia Street NE resulted in three fatalities using a firearm, with investigators successfully solving the case and charging 1 suspect. This triple homicide represents 5.5% of all 2025 homicide victims in a single incident, demonstrating how mass casualty events can significantly impact annual statistics. The case likely involved domestic violence, gang retaliation, or targeted attack given the multiple victims at a single residential location.
The remaining 52 victims died in 52 separate single-victim incidents, meaning that aside from the Georgia Street triple homicide, each case involved one victim. This pattern differs from some major cities experiencing frequent mass shootings or gang-related attacks with multiple casualties. The 53 total cases resulting in 55 victims indicates that Albuquerque’s homicides primarily involve individual victims rather than mass casualty events, though the potential for such incidents exists as demonstrated by the May tragedy. The solved status of the triple homicide showcases APD’s capability to investigate complex multi-victim cases successfully.
Murder Rate in Albuquerque 2025 Cold Case Success
Year of Original Case | Cases Solved in 2025 | Suspects Charged | Years Since Incident |
---|---|---|---|
2024 | 8 cases | 14 suspects | 1 year |
2022 | 2 cases | 3 suspects | 3 years |
2021 | 3 cases | 3 suspects | 4 years |
2020 | 1 case | 1 suspect | 5 years |
2019 | 1 case | 2 suspects | 6 years |
2018 | 2 cases | 2 suspects | 7 years |
2012 | 1 case | 2 suspects (deceased) | 13 years |
Total | 18 cases | 27 total suspects | Various timeframes |
Data Source: City of Albuquerque Police Department Investigation of Previous Year Cases 2025
The cold case success statistics for the murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 demonstrate extraordinary commitment to justice for victims whose cases remained unsolved for years or even decades. APD’s Homicide Unit solved 18 cases from previous years during 2025, bringing closure to families who waited months or years for answers. The 8 cases from 2024 solved in 2025 with 14 suspects charged shows that many investigations naturally extend beyond calendar year boundaries as detectives gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build prosecutable cases. These relatively recent cases benefited from fresh leads, witness cooperation, and forensic analysis that took months to complete.
The oldest cold case cleared in 2025 dates back to 2012, an astounding 13 years after the original incident. Investigators identified 2 suspects, both now deceased, finally providing answers to a family that waited over a decade for resolution. This case exemplifies the “never give up” philosophy that characterizes effective homicide units, where detectives continue pursuing leads regardless of time elapsed. Additional impressive clearances include 2 cases from 2018 (7 years old) with 2 suspects charged, and 1 case from 2019 (6 years old) with 2 suspects charged, demonstrating that even half-decade-old cases remain solvable through persistent detective work.
The murder rate in Albuquerque 2025 shows encouraging progress that may indicate sustainable improvements if current strategies continue. The 24.7% reduction in homicides represents genuine lives saved and families spared tragedy, demonstrating that focused efforts combining law enforcement, prosecution, and community intervention can reduce urban violence. However, maintaining these gains requires sustained commitment to the policies, programs, and personnel that achieved initial success.
Looking ahead, Albuquerque must address persistent challenges including firearm proliferation, substance abuse, poverty, and interpersonal conflict resolution. The 83% clearance rate provides deterrent value that must be maintained through adequate detective staffing and resources. Community violence intervention programs showing promise require expansion, particularly in high-crime neighborhoods where 37.7% of murders stem from disrespect-motivated confrontations. Investment in education, mental health services, and economic opportunity creation addresses root causes driving violence. While September 2025 data demonstrates progress, sustained reductions depend on continued collaboration between law enforcement, community organizations, and residents working together for safer neighborhoods throughout the Duke City.
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