CAMDEN, NJ — Once one of the murder capitals of America, the New Jersey city of Camden reported zero homicides this summer, marking the first time in more than five decades the city has gone through the season without a killing.
The milestone, which spanned June 21 through September 22, comes as officials credit community policing and neighborhood outreach for driving down violence.
The achievement, however, has been clouded by confusion. A viral claim by some conservatives online suggested that “under Trump, nobody was murdered in Camden this summer”, which while true, has been identified as misleading.
While Trump is the President, the decline in violent crime cannot be directly attributed to him.
Camden’s crime picture
County data show the city recorded 18 homicides in 2024. The years 2022 and 2023 each saw 28 killings. The summer 2025 streak marks a seasonal improvement, not an annual or multi-year trend.
Through mid-2025, violent crime in Camden has fallen roughly 12% compared with the same period in 2024, and homicides are down about 30%. Officials caution the homicide-free summer should be viewed as progress, not proof that violence has disappeared.
What leaders credit for the drop
Officials attribute the decline to a “unity policing” strategy, which emphasizes community engagement alongside law enforcement. Investments in technology such as drones and surveillance, combined with neighborhood events like block parties, cleanups, and youth programs, have helped strengthen ties between police and residents.
“Huge news: For the first time in over 50 years, the City of Camden has reported ZERO homicides over the summer,” Governor Phil Murphy touted. “This incredible progress is a testament to our multi-faceted approach to driving down crime: investing in strong neighborhoods and schools while supporting law enforcement.”
“A decade ago, Camden City had one of the highest homicide rates in North America. This summer, there were none. That progress shows what’s possible when you invest in community policing, work hand-in-hand with the community, and give officers the training and equipment they need to keep people safe. There is still more work to do, but Camden’s story proves the power of working together to build safer, stronger communities,” said Congressman Donald Norcross.
