Homicides in England and Wales Reach Historic Low

The total number of homicides in England and Wales has fallen to its lowest level since records began, with 499 cases reported in the year ending September 2025. This figure represents a 7% decrease from the previous year, when 539 homicides were recorded. The decline is significantly attributed to a 23% drop in homicides involving knives or sharp instruments, which accounted for 174 deaths during the same period. Additionally, overall knife crime offenses decreased by 9%, totaling 50,430 incidents, according to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

Homicides in England and Wales fall to lowest level since records beganHomicides at lowest level for more than 40 years as knife crime fallsHomicides in England and Wales at lowest level since 1980sOffice for National Statistics

The ONS data indicates that while homicides and gun crime are at their lowest levels this century, other forms of crime, such as shoplifting, have risen. Shoplifting offenses increased by 5%, from 492,660 to 519,381. The ONS also reported that the number of robbery offenses remained relatively stable at approximately 82,678. Despite these increases, the overall picture of violent crime appears stable, with an estimated 1.1 million incidents of violent crime reported, showing little change from the previous year.

Homicides at lowest level for more than 40 years as knife crime falls

In response to the crime statistics, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasized the government's commitment to addressing community safety. She stated, “We are having real success tackling the crimes that terrorise communities,” while acknowledging the need for further action against rising shop theft and robbery. The government plans to recruit 13,000 additional neighborhood officers and has invested £2 billion more in policing since taking office.

Homicides at lowest level for more than 40 years as knife crime falls

The recent reforms include a significant restructuring of police forces, aiming to create a National Police Service to better address serious crimes such as terrorism and fraud. This initiative is expected to relieve local forces, allowing them to focus on everyday policing.

Homicides at lowest level for more than 40 years as knife crime falls

Despite the positive trends in homicide and knife crime statistics, critics point out that the rise in shoplifting and other property crimes indicates ongoing challenges in community safety. Mahmood noted, “The crimes that tear at the fabric of communities... continue to rise and we must do more.” This sentiment reflects concerns that while certain violent crimes are decreasing, other forms of crime are becoming more prevalent, necessitating a comprehensive approach to crime prevention.

Homicides in England and Wales at lowest level since 1980s

The ONS data is derived from both police recorded crime and the Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW), which provides a broader view of crime trends. However, discrepancies exist regarding the accuracy of police recorded crime due to variations in reporting practices across different police forces. The CSEW is considered more reliable for tracking long-term trends, as it includes unreported crimes and is unaffected by changes in police recording methods.

Office for National StatisticsHomicides at lowest level for more than 40 years as knife crime fallsHomicides in England and Wales fall to lowest level since records beganHomicides in England and Wales at lowest level since 1980s

• “Homicide and gun crime are at the lowest levels seen this century, while knife crime has also decreased.” — Billy Gazard, Office for National Statistics

Homicides in England and Wales at lowest level since 1980s

• “Shabana Mahmood, the home secretary, said: “We are having real success tackling the crimes that terrorise communities.” — Shabana Mahmood, Home Secretary

Homicides in England and Wales fall to lowest level since records began

• “But the crimes that tear at the fabric of communities, like shop theft and shop robbery, continue to rise and we must do more.” — Shabana Mahmood, Home Secretary

Homicides at lowest level for more than 40 years as knife crime falls

The latest statistics reflect a complex landscape of crime in England and Wales, highlighting both successes in reducing certain violent crimes and the persistent challenges posed by property crimes.

Office for National Statistics