Portland shootings on track for lowest annual total since 2019

Portland's gun violence statistics reveal a promising trend, with only 42 reported shootings in November 2024, marking the lowest monthly total since March 2020. This decline contributes to an overall decrease in shootings over the past two years, potentially bringing this year's total to 746, the lowest since 2019. Despite this progress, officials from the Portland Police Bureau emphasize that they are not declaring victory yet. Increased police presence in high-risk areas, such as Dawson Park, has been identified as a key factor in this decline, alongside the efforts of community partners focused on violence prevention. Community advocate Larry Turner noted that while the numbers are encouraging, any shooting is one too many.

The article also places this trend within the context of a broader national decline in gun violence, reporting a 13% decrease in gun homicides across the U. S. since 2023. Additionally, changing weather patterns may have contributed to the reduced incidents. Overall, the article conveys a sense of cautious optimism while recognizing the ongoing challenges in managing gun violence in Portland.