SACRAMENTO, CA — California officials report a significant decline in homicides and gun violence, with killings falling 35% between 2022 and 2024 to the lowest level on record.
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows homicides dropped from 2,304 in 2022 to 1,768 in 2024, with notable declines among Black and Latino men, who have historically faced the highest risk of gun violence.
State leaders attribute the decrease to stricter gun laws, expanded use of red-flag orders, and increased investment in violence prevention programs. California Attorney General Rob Bonta said the progress reflects “strong gun safety laws” and targeted interventions.
Despite the improvement, disparities remain. Nearly 90% of shooting victims between 2022 and 2024 were male, and about 75% were Black or Latino, according to state data. Domestic violence also continues to be a major factor in homicides involving women, with increases reported among Black and Latina victims over the past decade.
Officials warn that continued progress may be at risk due to reduced federal funding for prevention programs. Demand for California’s state-level violence prevention grants has surged, far exceeding available resources.
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