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Surprise saw 500% increase in homicides in 2024

Latest crime stats detail 12 killings in Surprise last year

Surprise homicide rate increased 500% in 2024, according to statistics the Surprise Police Department presented to the National Incident Based Reporting System.

Independent Newsmedia/Jason Stone

Surprise Police Sgt. Rick Hernandez answers questions about a police-involved shooting in a Walmart parking lot in 2024.

Independent Newsmedia/Jason Stone

Surprise residents who thought the city has seen more big crimes in the past year aren’t imagining things.

The city experienced a 500% rise in homicides in 2024 over the year prior in new crime statistics the Surprise Police Department presented to the city council on March 4.

Police Chief Benny Pina said the city had 12 homicides a year ago, which is 10 more than in 2023.

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