The number of killings in Harrisburg so far this year— 23 — matches the total from two years ago, setting a tragic record for the highest number of killings since at least 1987.
And there are still 11 days left in 2024.
The uptick in Harrisburg killings comes as other cities in the region saw decreases, and as murder rates have fallen nationally, according to the Major Cities Chiefs Association.
Harrisburg investigators solved or cleared 16 of the 23 homicides so far, for a 70% clearance rate for 2024. That’s better than the national average and higher than the 62% solved at the end of 2023, despite the number of killings nearly doubling since then. Harrisburg had 14 homicides in 2023.
Gang disputes lead to homicides in Harrisburg each year, some more than others. That was the case in about five homicides in 2024, Gautsch said. Even though the shooters are aiming for their rivals, known as the opps, or opposition, sometimes innocent bystanders are killed instead of the intended target.
“Unfortunately anyone who’s out there can be the victim,” Gautsch said.
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