The much-maligned murder numbers in Mississippi’s capital city declined for the fourth consecutive year in 2025, moving into double digits for the first time in several calendar years.
WLBT-TV, which tracks homicide counts in Jackson, reported on Jan. 1 that 2025 ended with 75 killings – a 32% decrease from 2024 and the first time under 100 since 2019 – with the Jackson Police Department (63), Capitol Police Department (11), and Hinds County Sheriff’s Office (1) working as lead investigating agencies. The outlet added that 73% of the killings investigated by JPD in 2025 have already been solved, a rate exceeding the national average.
On Monday, interim Jackson Police Chief and Hinds County Sheriff Tyree Jones confirmed those numbers while saying more work is needed to make Jackson as safe as possible.
“For the first time in several years, our city’s homicide rate has been reduced to double digits – a stark contrast to past years when homicides exceeded 100 and at times approached 150,” a statement from Jones reads. “While this progress is encouraging, we recognize that even one life lost is one too many. Our hearts remain with the families who have suffered unimaginable loss, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to pursuing solutions that prevent violence and preserve life.
“As we move forward we will continue strengthening our relationships with the people and neighborhoods we serve. Together, we will build on this momentum, deepen trust, and work collectively to ensure that Jackson continues on a path of safety, stability, and hope.”
Jones added that overall year-over-year crime numbers were down in 2025, including a 13.38% drop in violent crime and a 20.2% drop in property crime. Across the board, Jackson saw 654 fewer crimes reported than in 2024, a 13.38% downtick.
“This achievement belongs not only to our officers, investigators, and support staff but also to the citizens of Jackson,” he continued. “Your willingness to engage, to speak up, and to partner with us in crime-fighting efforts has been essential. Public safety is a shared responsibility, and these results show what is possible when law enforcement and the community stand together.”
Reducing crime has been a priority for first-year Mayor John Horhn, who said in his inaugural State of the City address in October that his administration is working to open the door to additional officers, better equipment, and more technology. A search is still underway for a new JPD chief, following the retirement of Joseph Wade, with Clarion Ledger reporting the process is expected to wrap up this month.
First homicide of 2026
The first homicide of 2026 was reported by the Jackson Police Department on Saturday, Jan. 3. JPD officials said a man was found shot to death in the yard of a residence in the 3600 block of Lee Drive. The victim’s identity is being withheld pending next-of-kin notification. Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact JPD at (601) 960-1234 or Crime Stoppers at (601) 355-8477.