The number of crime incidents in Pittsburgh saw an overall decrease last week, after a previous rise, according to data from SpotCrime, which collects reports from police agencies and validated sources. Incidents fell to 583 for the week of Sept. 16, down from 1,146 the week before.
The overall decrease in crime reports was led by assault and theft. Assault fell to 133 incidents last week, from 246 the week before. Theft went from 171 to 93.
There was also a sizable percentage decrease in robbery, from 27 incidents per week to 15, and in burglary, from 43 to 31 incidents.
There were 37 reported vandalism incidents last week. That represents a decrease from 38 incidents the previous week.
Among the few types of offenses that saw an uptick last week, shootings went from six to 10.
There were 264 reports of "other" crimes, a decrease of 351 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, 168 involved arrests, such as for drug possession, down from 444 reported arrests the week before.
Looking at crime patterns in different areas of the city, the Central Business District, Southside Flats and Carrick had the most reported incidents last week. The Central Business District and Carrick were at the top of the list the previous week as well.
Crime in the Central Business District decreased the most. Crime reports in Mount Washington also fell, after increasing the week before, and incidents in Fine View are down considerably as well.
Regarding when crime most often occurs, Monday, Thursday and Saturday had the most crime incidents last week. The largest decrease from the previous week occurred on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Comparing times of day, late morning, late afternoon and evening 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.
