Knoxville, TN (WOKI) – Knoxville has continued to see a dramatic decrease in crime through the first quarter of 2026.
From January 1 through March 31, 2026, there were no murders in Knoxville, down from four at the same time in 2025. Over the previous five years, Knoxville averaged five murders within the first three months of the year. It is believed that this marks the first time since 1988 that Knoxville did not experience a homicide during the first three months of the year.
In other key violent crime categories, non-fatal shootings are also down a remarkable 82 percent compared to 2025, while robberies are down 19 percent.
“We are off to a great start to the year, and that is a tribute to the daily efforts and attention to detail demonstrated by the men and women of our department and our many partners,” Chief Paul Noel said. “We have leaned into both person-based and place-based strategies, focusing on the individuals most responsible for driving violence while maintaining an active, service-minded presence in areas where crime is most heavily concentrated. The first-quarter numbers are further evidence that these strategies are working.”
“These numbers prove our crime prevention efforts are paying off,” said Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon. “We continue to look for innovative ways to reduce crime and keep all Knoxvillians safe. I am so proud of the work of the Knoxville Police Department, the Department of Community Safety and Empowerment, and other partners who are coming together and clearly having a positive impact in our city.”
Through the first quarter of the year, multiple high-priority property crimes are also down double digits compared to 2025. That includes a current 35-percent reduction in burglary / breaking and entering, a 64-percent reduction in reported car burglaries, and a 42-percent reduction in motor vehicle thefts.
