Washington state crime rates surge with murders up 80% since 2019 according to FBI report

During the January 7, 2025 City Council Meeting in West Richland, significant concerns were raised regarding rising crime rates in Washington state, as highlighted by a recent FBI report released through the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPIC).

The report compared crime data from 2019 to 2023, revealing alarming trends. The murder rate in Washington state has surged by over 80% since 2019, with an increase of 87.4 incidents per 100,000 people, far exceeding the national average increase of 17.2. Violent crime overall has risen by 19.6% in the state, compared to a national increase of just 4.1%.

Particularly concerning is the spike in aggravated assaults, which have increased by 27.3% in Washington, while the national rate rose only by 5.6%. Vehicle thefts have seen a staggering rise of 110.2% in Washington, more than double the national increase of 44.9%. The vehicle theft rate in Washington stands at 673.1 per 100,000 residents, compared to the national rate of 318.0.

While the report indicates a 19.8% increase in robberies in Washington, it contrasts sharply with the national trend, where robbery rates have decreased by 18.5%.

These statistics underscore the urgent need for community safety measures and law enforcement strategies to address the escalating crime rates in the region. The council's discussions will likely focus on how to respond effectively to these challenges in the coming months.