A recent surge in violent crime has left Tallahassee residents on edge, as multiple shootings have disrupted the community’s sense of security. In 2025 alone, four people have been killed and at least three injured in seven serious shootings, according to a Tallahassee Democrat analysis.
The most recent incidents occurred on a Friday night, with two separate shootings just hours apart. At approximately 7:59 p.m., officers responded to a call on Sunburst Loop, where a juvenile male had been shot and was subsequently hospitalized. Later, around 11:20 p.m., police were dispatched to Mabry Street after reports of gunfire and discovered a man deceased with a gunshot wound. Authorities are actively investigating both incidents and urge anyone with information to come forward.
These events have heightened concerns among residents, including Taylor Harrington and Derrion Smith. Harrington recounted the distressing experience of learning about gun violence in her area.
“Hearing about what happened at Alight West Tenn just last month was terrifying. Even if you’re not directly involved, the fear stays with you. It feels like nowhere is truly safe anymore,” Harrington said.
Smith, a Tallahassee resident, had an unsettling encounter with gun violence while walking his dog near Monroe Street.
“I was just out for a normal walk, and then I heard the gunshots from the neighborhood next door. It’s not something you expect, but now, I don’t even feel safe walking my own dog,” Smith said.
Despite these alarming incidents, the Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) reported a 15.5% decrease in violent crime during physical year from October 2023 to September 2024. TPD attributes this decline to strategic efforts and aims to continue this trend by increasing the number of sworn officers per capita by 5%, or 20 officers.
However, the recent uptick in shootings has led residents to question the effectiveness of these measures. As investigations continue, Tallahassee officials face mounting pressure to implement solutions that will restore safety and confidence among residents.