Gun-related homicides in Denver last year reached their highest levels since at least 2015, according to an Axios Denver analysis of data from the Denver Police Department.
Why it matters: The findings bolster initial data showing a spike in violent crime throughout the pandemic in Denver and across the state.
- The troubling trend has pushed Colorado lawmakers to act, including passing numerous pieces of legislation aimed at cracking down on the issue.
By the numbers: The number of homicides caused by a firearm in 2021 more than doubled the total from 2015, with at least 82 incidents recorded by Denver police.
- The biggest spike occurred between 2019 and 2020, with a 35% increase.
- 2021 also saw a significant uptick compared to the year prior, at 32%.
