OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The number of homicides in Oklahoma City stood at 74 in 2022, but the figure dropped to 72 in 2023. Fentanyl-related deaths are now included in that number, with seven of the 2023 fatalities linked to the drug, a count not previously tallied.
The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics reported 326 fentanyl deaths in 2022, with Mark Woodward, an official with the agency, noting that fentanyl has become the fastest growing cause of drug-related deaths in the state and across the United States.
Despite the high fentanyl-related death toll, homicides in Oklahoma have continued to decrease, a trend highlighted by the FBI statistics, which showed a drop in violent crime rates from 458.6 per 100,000 people in 2020 to about 419.7 per 100,000 in 2022.
Within the Oklahoma City metro area, homicide numbers have decreased as a result of improved technology and medical care. Mobile surgical units, med flight services, and advancements in policing have all played a role in this decline, which is significant compared to crime rates from decades ago. However, despite the decline in homicides, nine cases from 2023 remain unsolved as the new year begins.
According to Gary Knight of the Oklahoma City Police Department, these crimes are difficult to prevent at times, and law enforcement does everything it can to address them.
Moving forward, the Oklahoma City homicide numbers and violent crime rates will continue to be closely monitored, with officials focused on finding innovative solutions to build on recent progress.
In summary, while Oklahoma continues to experience challenges with fentanyl-related deaths, the overall decline in homicides and violent crime rates within the state is a positive sign of progress. Specifically, the drop from 74 to 72 homicides in Oklahoma City indicates a significant achievement, as law enforcement agencies continue to work towards solving unsolved cases.