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Edinburg marks a year with zero homicides; officials credit new programs and training
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Summary
Mayor Omar Ochoa announced Edinburg recorded zero homicides for the year, cited declines in major and violent crimes, and highlighted new police tools and a city police academy as part of public‑safety improvements.
Edinburg officials told attendees at the State of the City that the city completed a full year with zero homicides for the first time in more than three decades and attributed the result to a combination of enforcement, prevention and community programs.
"For the first time in more than 3 decades, the city of Edinburg completed an entire year with 0 homicides," Mayor Omar Ochoa said, adding that major crimes fell 16% and violent crime dropped 37% over four years.
The mayor credited targeted efforts including the "Make a Plan" campaign, a specialized DWI enforcement unit (which he said helped reduce DWI arrests by 31%), and new tools such as a police drone first‑responder program equipped with high‑definition cameras and thermal night vision.
Ochoa also announced the launch of a city police academy accredited by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and the graduation of its first class; he said the initiative will help train future officers locally.
Edinburg Fire Department officials reported responding to about 3,200 emergency calls in 2025, installing more than 1,100 free smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in vulnerable neighborhoods, and deploying seven Edinburg firefighters to assist flood response in Kerr County.
Councilmember Jerry Lozano introduced the safety segment, emphasizing that public safety is central to city operations and community trust.
