Homicides fall 17% in big U.S. cities as the post-pandemic crime decline continues

Preliminary data shows a significant drop in homicides in major U.S. cities, with a 17.2% decrease through June 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, continuing a trend that began after the pandemic. This decline is notable because it has persisted through two presidencies, suggesting a broad-based trend that transcends political eras. The fact that violent crime has been falling since the pandemic's peak indicates a potential shift in urban safety dynamics, which could influence crime policy and public perception for years to come.