Philly Homicide Rates Drop, But Remain A Leading Cause of Death

January 8, 2026

In a case of good news, bad news, Philadelphia’s homicide rate decreased. The bad news is that it remains one of the city’s leading causes of death.

Violent crimes carry some of the stiffest penalties. A conviction can upend a person’s entire life. Being accused of committing a violent crime such as homicide can upend a person’s entire life.

If you’ve been accused of homicide or other serious violent crimes, the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team can help. Your rights don’t end because you’ve been accused of a crime. Call us at 888-535-3686 or fill out our online form.

Drop in Homicides

Like many cities, Philadelphia saw a surge in homicides during the pandemic. In 2021, 562 homicides occurred in the city.

In 2024, Philly had 269 homicides, a 52 percent decrease. This parallels a similar reduction in the number of shootings.

Even with this significant decrease, homicide remains one of the city’s leading causes of death. Murder remains below the top three of cancer, heart disease, and drug overdoses.

The High Cost of Homicide

Violent crimes cover a wide range of transgressions. Homicide is generally considered one of the most serious.

In Pennsylvania, there are two main categories of homicide: manslaughter and murder. Both of these have subcategories.

Manslaughter is less serious. Individuals can be convicted of either voluntary or involuntary manslaughter.

Murder can be in the third, second, or first degree. Murder in the first degree is the most serious. If convicted, individuals may be sentenced to life without the possibility of parole or the death penalty.

The steep penalties for any manslaughter or murder conviction are why it’s so important to build a strong defense against the charges. A lawyer can help you not only assemble your case but also structure it in a way that best reflects their client.

Self-defense, defending others, and defense of property are all common defenses in the Keystone State. Building a defense strategy can be the difference between failing and succeeding during a trial.

Pennsylvania’s Criminal Judicial Process

The state has a set process for criminal cases. Criminal cases will generally follow these steps:

  • Criminal complaint
  • Warrant
  • Preliminary arraignment
  • Formal arraignment
  • Plea bargain (optional)
  • Trial
  • Sentencing
  • Appeal

Meeting deadlines and understanding your options at each step of the process is important. An attorney with the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team can walk you through what each step involves, the pros and cons of various choices, and what you need to do.

Protect Your Rights

Homicide remains a serious problem in Philadelphia. Being accused of homicide can have serious and long-ranging implications for your life. Beyond serious penalties such as jail time, you risk damage to your reputation, your relationships, and your career.

When facing allegations of homicide, you need to be proactive in building a strong defense. The LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team can help. If you’re facing criminal charges related to a violent crime, call us at 888-535-3686 or fill out our online form.

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