Murders sink to record lows

Jamaica’s murder rate has plunged to levels not seen in three decades, with just 122 killings recorded between July and September, marking the lowest third-quarter bloodshed tally in 30 years.

The decline deepened in September, which closed with only 35 murders, shattering the previous monthly low of 37 set just one month earlier. It is the fourth time this year that murders have dipped below 40 in a month, signalling a dramatic retreat in deadly violence.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security and Peace, Dr Horace Chang, said the latest figures provide further evidence of the progress being made in reducing serious crime.

“These figures represent lives saved and communities that have experienced less violence. While we recognise the progress, our focus remains on sustaining and deepening these gains and ensuring that every Jamaican can feel safer in their community,” he said.

The latest gains come amid a historic plunge in deadly violence across Jamaica. The country recorded 673 murders in 2025, the lowest annual murder tally in more than 30 years, and the bloodshed has continued to ease in 2026, with fewer killings being recorded, compared to the same periods in previous years.