WILMINGTON, DE — Wilmington’s 2024 Year-End Crime Report is in, and the results are a mix of progress and persistent challenges. Mayor Mike Purzycki and Police Chief Wilfredo Campos unveiled the report, showcasing a 21% drop in overall Part 1 crimes compared to 2023, marking a significant milestone in the city’s fight against crime. While this includes a notable decline in shootings, an increase in murders brings a sobering reminder of the work still left to do.
Encouraging Numbers on Violent Crime
Wilmington tallied 81 shooting incidents in 2024, down from 91 in the previous year. This figure represents the third lowest number of shootings in 20 years, surpassed only by 72 incidents in 2018 and 76 in 2005. This sustained reduction in shootings reflects the city’s ongoing efforts to curb violence, particularly group-related incidents. Police data reveal a consistent decrease in group violence, which accounted for just 23% of shooting and murder incidents in 2024.
But while the city celebrates progress in reducing shootings, the murder rate tells a different story. Wilmington recorded 24 murders last year, up from 14 in 2023. This marks a sharp rise in non-shooting-related homicides, including stabbings, strangulations, and assaults, which point to a troubling trend of isolated, spontaneous violence. Of these murders, 28% stemmed from domestic disputes or altercations, while 42% remain under investigation. Notably, 13 arrests have already been made, with detectives optimistic about solving additional cases in the months ahead.
Progress Beyond Statistics
These numbers highlight both victories and ongoing challenges, but the efforts of the Wilmington Police Department (WPD) extend well beyond law enforcement. Chief Campos emphasized that 2024 was a year of innovation and community connection, with initiatives designed to strengthen bonds between police and residents.
At the forefront of these efforts is the “Partners in Care” Co-Responder Program, launched in collaboration with ChristianaCare. This initiative provided specialized support to over 300 individuals and families, addressing mental health crises and other challenges beyond the traditional scope of policing. Additionally, the WPD’s new Wellness Program prioritizes the health and well-being of officers, civilian staff, and retirees, recognizing that a resilient police force is key to sustained public safety.
The department has also ramped up its community outreach through nearly 100 weekly Community Outreach Walks, monthly Coffee with a Cop gatherings, and Community Resource Fairs, fostering open lines of communication with residents. These initiatives aim to break down barriers, build trust, and create a more responsive police force—a necessary foundation for long-term safety.
Why It Matters
The 21% reduction in Part 1 crimes is more than a statistic—it’s a testament to the years of strategic planning and community-focused policing initiated under Chief Robert Tracy in 2017 and continued under Chief Campos. By combining traditional policing with holistic, people-centered programs, Wilmington is redefining what it means to protect and serve.
The decline in shootings underscores the effectiveness of targeted efforts to address group violence and prevent repeat offenders from cycling back into crime. However, the rise in murders, particularly those stemming from isolated incidents, highlights the complexity of Wilmington’s battle against crime. These aren’t issues that can be solved by policing alone—they call for deeper investments in community support systems, mental health resources, and conflict resolution initiatives.
Looking Ahead
Both Mayor Purzycki and Chief Campos expressed pride in the strides made during 2024, while candidly acknowledging the challenges that remain. “The annual statistics we have released through the years are very encouraging and show continual improvement in policing and community relations,” said Mayor Purzycki. With the 2024 report serving as the final crime statistics under his administration, the mayor leaves behind a legacy of reform, innovation, and a city-wide push for safer streets.
The Wilmington Police Department’s work doesn’t end with these year-end results. If anything, the need for creative, inclusive approaches to public safety is clearer than ever. With the foundations laid by years of effort, 2025 offers an opportunity to deepen the progress and confront Wilmington’s challenges head-on.
The message is clear: Wilmington’s road to a safer, stronger city is a long-term commitment—one built on collaboration, persistence, and a shared belief in the power of change.
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