Police take action as Tacoma homicides in 2019 already match last year

Tacoma City Council is taking action against gun violence and recently voted in favor of a ceasefire proclamation. The city posted on Facebook that public safety is the council’s top priority and they hope to prevent future tragedy.

This comes after hundreds marched Saturday, demanding an end to gang violence. There were 18 murders in the first eight months of 2019, which matches the murder count for all of last year, according to the News Tribune.

Snapshot of life locked up at Tacoma’s Northwest Detention Center

“My god is telling me that we can heal … We’ve got to begin to talk to our neighbors. Their safety is our safety, and it also starts in the home,” once councilmember said during the vote.

Detectives have solved all the homicides but three, and three of 18 were ultimately killed by police officers or security guards. The most recent was a fatal shooting that resulted in the death of two men on Tuesday. The year also saw to two murder-suicides, as well as others killed by family members.

Sound Transit boosting security for Seattle light rail passengers

“In recent months, our community has been rocked by a spike in tragic acts of gun violence and loss of life. Our Council believes public safety is a top priority, and we remain committed to addressing this increase in violence and preventing future tragedy,” the City of Tacoma said in statement. “Thank you to everyone that came out tonight to take this historic step against gun violence in our community.”

Follow @http://twitter.com/Mynorthwest