The New Orleans Police Department released on April 7 its violent crime statistics for the first quarter of 2026, showing declines in several key categories compared to previous years. The data, compiled by the NOPD Analytics Unit, covers incidents reported between January 1 and March 31.
According to the department, public safety remains a top priority as officials monitor trends in violent crime. The report is significant because it offers insight into how law enforcement strategies may be impacting crime rates over time.
There were 20 reported murders or non-negligent homicides during the first three months of this year, which marks a decrease from both last year’s total of 27 and from earlier years. Fatal shootings increased to 20 incidents from last year’s figure of 12 but remain lower than totals seen in previous years. Non-fatal shooting incidents totaled 45, slightly higher than last year but down significantly compared to earlier periods. Armed robberies dropped to 54 cases and carjackings fell to just 21 cases for the quarter—both showing notable decreases over a three-year span.
NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick said, “As a police department, public safety is always our top priority.” She added: “These statistics show that what we are doing as a department is working. Our intentional, constitutional policing strategies are creating proven results in lowering violent crime in the city and making our residents and visitors safer. We will continue to employ these strategies as well as incorporating new ones, while we continually assess what is working and what may need adjustment to provide the best quality services we can to the City of New Orleans.”
Over a three-year period ending this quarter, homicide incidents have dropped by about two-thirds while similar reductions were recorded for fatal shootings (64 percent), non-fatal shootings (57 percent), armed robberies (64 percent), and carjackings (67 percent). These numbers reflect ongoing efforts by law enforcement officials to address violence within New Orleans.
The department plans continued assessment of its approaches while seeking further improvements in public safety.
