Wichita police identify victims, make arrest in double homicide
29 February 2024
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — Wichita police say that even though there has been an increase in homicides so far this year, other violent crimes are down in the city.
“We want to reiterate to the community that we share your concerns regarding the rise in homicide cases this year,” Lieutenant Aaron Moses, Wichita Police Department, said. “But, also make sure everyone knows that, in all, violent crime has seen a reduction this year.”
Moses gave an update on the city’s 2024 crime statistics during a news conference Thursday morning.
He said homicides are up 60% compared to this time in 2023. They are up 3% compared to the five-year average.
Moses said aggravated assaults and batteries with firearms being discharged are down 45% compared to last year.
Wichita 2024 crime comparison:
CategoryCompared to 2023Compared to 5-year averageHomicideUp 60%Up 3%Part One Violent CrimeDown 10%Down 8%RapeDown 29%Down 39%RobberyDown 20%Down 28%Aggravated assault/batteryDown 8%EvenAggravated assault/battery with a firearm being dischargedDown 45%Down 41%Drive-by shootingsDown 17%Up 2%Aggravated assault/battery domestic violenceDown 14%Down 7%Auto theftUp 37%Up 13%Source: WPD
Moses said the WPD believes the significant increase in auto theft cases can be attributed to the Kia Boys’ social media trend.
“Our crime analysts are working with field personnel to address this trend,” he said. “We want to remind those with affected Kia and Hyundai vehicles to take extra precautions to avoid theft of those vehicles.”
Moses said the WPD has already arrested multiple suspects and is working to catch others involved in the crimes.
He said the police department is pleased to report decreases in so many crime categories.
“We want the community to know that decreases in reported crime are not the complete success,” he said. “We still know that there is work to be done, and there’s crime affecting our community.”
Moses said the WPD is in the early stages of planning community town halls to discuss how to reduce violent crimes.