New report highlights Portland’s drop in gun violence, success of prevention, intervention, and enforcement efforts

A recent report by the Center for American Progress, "What City Leaders Say Is Helping Drive Down Gun Violence in Their Communities," shows Portland has made significant strides in reducing gun violence and has emerged as a national leader—ranking among the top 15 cities in the nation with the greatest reductions.

This progress is the result of intentional, historic investments in community violence intervention, and strong partnerships between Ceasefire, the Office of Violence Prevention, the Portland Police Bureau, including the bureau's Focused Intervention Team (FIT) and Enhanced Community Safety Team (ECST), Multnomah County, and community-based organizations—grounded in evidence-based strategies proven to reduce violence.

Equally important, Portland is seeing the largest reductions among communities that have been emphasized by the City's data-informed, efforts, showing that a focused, strategic approach drives real outcomes. Most notably, the largest reductions have occurred within Portland's African American community, with rates returning to pre-pandemic levels.

"We are on the right path, saving lives and showing what's possible when we lead with partnership, invest in community, and stay focused on what works," said Sierra Ellis, Ceasefire Community Response Program Manager.

Since implementing the City's gun violence intervention strategy in 2023, Ceasefire Portland has seen consistent and meaningful decreases in firearm-related homicides.

• 2025 saw the largest single-year drop in the national homicide rate with Portland helping lead that trend.
• In 2026, homicides are currently down 56% year to date, and down 68% compared to the three-year average.