LOUISVILLE, Ky. — As Louisville experiences a third straight year of surpassing 100 homicides, Louisville Metro Police are reporting an "ongoing positive trend" in the number of cases its investigators are solving.
Of the 126 reported homicides in 2023 so far, LMPD has closed, or solved, 58. At this same time last year, facing the same number of homicides, police closed two less cases.
When asked about the specific factors leading police to solve more cases this year, a spokesperson with LMPD released the following statement:
"The ongoing positive trend in our clearance rate serves as a resounding tribute to the relentless determination and unwavering dedication of our investigative team. Our investigators tirelessly pursue justice for the victims and their families, leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit.
Equally instrumental in this journey is the active role of our community, which has been paramount in providing crucial information about violent incidents. Their support has not only bolstered our investigations but has also strengthened the bonds between our department and the community.
We are unwavering in our commitment to fostering a united front in collaboration with our community partners. Together, we are resolute in our mission to ensure the safety and well-being of our community, working hand in hand to achieve this shared goal."
When looking at the rate of homicides police have solved versus the ones that remain open, also known as the clearance rate, LMPD is reporting a 46% clearance rate, at this point.
At this point in 2021, facing 143 homicides, police had a clearance rate of about 31%, solving 44 homicides.
Crime climbs as families wait for justice
Candy Linear, a mother of four now, said she will never forget the night she lost her middle daughter, Nylah—who in death, was being cradled in her mother's arms.
"I was able to be with Nyla. That's the worst of it," Linear said. "For me to fall to my knees, and hold my baby up against me, knowing in my heart that she was gone. Because I've never witnessed being up in close like that."
Nylah was shot and killed in July 2021, on Cecil Avenue near West Market Street. To this day, no one has been arrested for her murder.
"I can't unsee what I saw. If I blink real [tight], I can still feel the warmth of her skin," Linear said. "I will never get justice for Nylah, because you can't give me what you took from me. That's giving me justice."
Linear, who runs a foundation named after her late daughter, described what it feels like for families of homicide victims, to continue on without a sense of closure or justice.
"I have mothers, like me, [who] really are seeking it—they really want the killer caught," she said. "Sometimes, it'll weigh you down so heavy. Like somebody's standing on top of your shoulders. No matter what, you can't get up."
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