CHICAGO (WTVO) — As President Donald Trump continues his push to send federal agents to Chicago, calling it the "murder capital" of the country, the data tells a more nuanced story—one that may surprise even the most ardent critics of the Windy City.
The numbers: A city in decline—of crime
According to the latest data from the Chicago Police Department and city officials, violent crime in Chicago has dropped significantly in 2025: • Homicides are down 32% year-to-date, with 240 recorded through July, putting the city on track for fewer than 500 homicides this year—the lowest in six years. • Shooting incidents have decreased by 37%, with 865 reported through July. • Robberies are down 31.9%, and vehicular hijackings have plummeted by 49%. • Overall violent crime has declined 21.6%