The Metropolitan Police Department reported five shootings and three stabbings in Washington, D.C. in just one day last week. While each of the incidents is unrelated, they suggest an uptick in crime rates in the district.

Feb. 4 shootings included the killings of Gregory Wilkins, 32, and Aaron Robinson, 39. 

The District’s overall crime statistics show 2,903 crime reports by Feb. 10, 2022. On the same date in 2023, officials counted 3,524 total crime reports – a 21% increase.

Ateya Lacy, a middle school assistant principal, and native Washingtonian says that hearing about an uptick in violence is all too familiar but not any easier to bear.

“Any time there’s crime in the city, it makes you very uneasy,” says Lacy. 

At a glance, homicide rates to date are up by 16%. Sex abuse reports have seen a 157% change. Property crime rates have experienced a 30% increase.

“A lot of times, crime involves younger people,” says Lacy. “We don’t ever want to hear stories where young people are losing their lives or having life-changing experiences as a result of crime.”

Like many Washingtonians, Lacy hopes to see less crime overall. She encourages community members to give energy to uplifting youth rather than glorifying violence. 

“It’s everybody’s job to make sure that our children are mentally healthy and strong. All of those things matter to our psyche, and are reflected in our behavior,” urged Lacy.

James Pruitt, a junior at Howard University, says he stays mindful of his surroundings when headed to the Washington, D.C. campus. 

“Sometimes there will be a crime alert on Georgia Ave., which is the way I walk frequently,” says Pruitt. “Whether it be somewhere near campus, or on a neighboring street, I feel like I have to be conscious of my surroundings.” 

Pruitt advises others commuting to school and working in the city, “Be smart, pay close attention, and always pack light.”

At a Feb. 6 criminal code legislation press conference, Mayor Muriel Bowser acknowledged the matter, noting, “One thing that we all can agree to, people across all eight wards want us to do more to focus on guns and getting guns out of our community and to address the root causes of violence and expand opportunities for residents who are seeking a better path forward.” 

The hope of many Washingtonians is for a decrease in crime and a more peaceful Washington, D.C. For those seeking assistance after being harmed by crime, visit here.