CA, US & World
US Murder Rate Falls to Lowest Level Since the 1950s, FBI Data Shows

The U.S. murder rate has fallen to its lowest level since the 1950s, according to the FBI’s latest crime report, continuing a sharp decline that began after crime surged during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The FBI reported significant decreases in murder and other violent crimes in 2025, with the downward trend continuing into the first half of 2026, according to FBI data and independent crime researchers.
President Donald Trump highlighted the figures Friday during an event on Long Island, crediting his administration and federal law enforcement officials for the decline. Trump said there were more than 3,100 fewer murders in 2025 than the year before he took office.
FBI Director Kash Patel and other administration officials have pointed to increased federal resources for cities and their approach to supporting local law enforcement.
Crime researchers, however, caution that the decline cannot easily be attributed to one administration, policy or program. Adam Gelb, president of the nonpartisan Council on Criminal Justice, said homicide rates have fallen across cities with different political leadership, economic conditions and public safety strategies.
Researchers say several factors could be contributing to the decline, including changes in criminal justice practices, broader societal and cultural changes and technological advances.
The drop follows a significant increase in homicides during the early years of the pandemic. While the latest numbers represent a substantial improvement, researchers say more analysis is needed to determine exactly what is driving the nationwide decline.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: CNN Newsource
August 14, 2026

Latest Instagram Posts
🗣️ NO KINGS DEMONSTRATIONS ARE COMING BACK TO THE COACHELLA VALLEY! Thousands of demonstrations are planned nationwide Saturday, including FIVE right here in the Valley. Organizers say the goal is to help eligible voters prepare for the polls and know their rights. 📍 Events are planned in Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Palm Desert and Indio. Will you be hitting the streets this weekend? 👀 #NoKings #CoachellaValley #PalmSprings #Indio #CaliforniaNews
☕️ Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. No Kings protests?
Now Open! The new Agua Caliente gas station on Highway 111 in Cathedral City is officially open. A new stop for drivers in the Coachella Valley. Have you checked it out yet? #CathedralCity #AguaCaliente #CoachellaValley #NBCPalmSprin
A fire broke out Thursday morning at the KESQ News Channel 3 station in Thousand Palms, disrupting its morning broadcast. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The fire has been extinguished, and restoration efforts are underway. Station leaders told NBC Palm Springs they planned to return to the air at noon. We’re glad everyone is safe. We’ll share updates as more information becomes available. #ThousandPalms #KESQ #CoachellaValley #NBCPalmSprings
🚨 FIRE AT KESQ WHILE ON AIR! A fire broke out inside the KESQ news station in Thousand Palms around 5 a.m. this morning, forcing the station off the air. 🔥 The fire started in an equipment room where cameras and batteries are stored. Thankfully, NO ONE WAS INJURED. The cause and extent of the damage remain unknown as the station works to get back on air. ❤️🩹 #KESQ #ThousandPalms #BreakingNews #CoachellaValley
☕️Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. Four or against daylight saving?
James Talarico is advocating for a solution to immigration enforcement that rejects "the extremism on this issue in both parties." Talarico said, "Joe Biden failed us during his administration." And now, under the Trump administration, Talarico said there is a "different kind of extremism" in enforcement.
Jeff Zeleny breaks down Texas Democrat James Talarico's performance at a CNN Town Hall, where voters questioned him on religion, abortion and more.

New findings reveal what led to the death of Jackie, the beloved bald eagle from Big Bear Valley. A necropsy confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) as the primary cause of her decline. The infection caused a severe stomach ulcer, internal bleeding, anemia and a secondary bacterial infection. Testing also detected rat poison in Jackie’s liver, but officials say it was not identified as the primary cause of her death. Tests were negative for West Nile virus, and lead levels were within acceptable limits. Jackie’s mate, Shadow, remains in Big Bear Valley. Officials say there is no evidence that Shadow or the eaglets are sick. Jackie’s story captured hearts across the country and brought attention to bald eagle conservation. #JackieTheEagle #BigBear #BaldEagles #WildlifeConservation #BirdFlu #NBCPalmSprings
As discussion around flock cameras continues to spark greater conversations about surveillance and security, the Palm Springs Police Department is expected to provide an update on their flock camera program at tonight’s city council meeting. Stay tuned with NBC Palm Springs as we bring the latest details on this discussion #flockcameras #palmsprings #citycouncil #coachellavalley #760
