The number of crime incidents in Pittsburgh saw an overall decrease last week, for the third week in a row, according to data from SpotCrime, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources. Incidents fell to 799 for the week of April 29, down from 853 the week before.
The offenses that decreased the most were theft and shooting. Theft fell to 122 incidents last week, from 141 the week before. Shootings went from 11 to five. Shootings have continued to fall for the last two weeks.
In a somewhat smaller category, there was also a notable percentage decrease in vandalism, from 35 incidents per week to 32.
Among the few types of offenses that saw an uptick last week, reports of assault went from 182 to 193. Incidents of robbery rose from 14 to 19, and burglary went from 15 to 17.
There were 411 reports of "other" crimes, a decrease of 44 from the previous week. SpotCrime's broad "other" category includes a variety of offenses, such as fraud, trespassing, public disturbance and traffic violations. Of those incidents, 329 involved arrests, including for drug possession, down from 348 reported arrests the week before.
As far as where crime is concentrated in the city, the Central Business District, Carrick and Homewood North had the most reported incidents last week. Carrick and Homewood North were at the top of the list the previous week as well.
Southside Flats saw the largest decline. Crime reports in East Allegheny also fell, after increasing the week before, and incidents in Brighton Heights are down considerably as well.
Regarding when crime most often occurs, Thursday, Tuesday and Monday witnessed the most reported crimes last week. The largest decrease from the previous week occurred on Sunday, Saturday and Wednesday, while incidents on Thursday and Tuesday went up. Comparing times of day, late afternoon, early afternoon and after midnight saw the most crime last week.
To report a crime in progress or life-threatening emergency, call 911. To report a non-urgent crime or complaint, contact your local police department.
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This story was created automatically using local crime data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about our data sources and local crime methodology. Got thoughts about what we're doing? Go here to share your feedback.
