The number of crime incidents in Pittsburgh saw an overall increase last week, after a previous decline, according to data from SpotCrime, which collects data from police agencies and validated sources. Incidents rose to 889 for the week of May 6, up from 799 the week before.
The specific offenses that increased the most were shootings and thefts. Shootings rose to 14 incidents last week, from five the week before. Thefts went from 122 to 131.
While somewhat smaller categories, there was also a sizable percentage increase in vandalism, from 32 incidents per week to 41, and in burglary, from 17 to 21 incidents.
There were 197 reported assault incidents last week. That represents an increase from 193 incidents the previous week.
Among the few types of offenses that saw a downturn last week, reports of robbery went from 19 to nine.
There were 476 reports of "other" crimes, an increase of 65 from the previous week. SpotCrime's broad "other" category includes a variety of offenses like fraud, trespassing, public disturbance and traffic violations. Of those incidents, 337 involved arrests, such as for drug possession, up from 329 reported arrests the week before.
As far as where crime is concentrated in the city, the Central Business District, East Liberty and Homewood South had the most reported incidents last week. The Central Business District was at the top of the list the previous week as well.
East Liberty experienced the highest growth in crime; incidents in the neighborhood have been rising for two weeks in a row. Crime reports in the Central Business District also rose for a second week, and incidents in Shadyside are up considerably as well.
Regarding when most crimes are committed, Wednesday, Monday and Friday had the most reported crimes last week. The largest increase from the previous week occurred on Friday, Wednesday and Sunday, while incidents on Thursday and Tuesday went down. Comparing times of day, evening, late 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.
Head to SpotCrime to get free local crime alerts in your area.
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.
