Kent has recorded 14 homicides so far in 2026, doubling the number from the same time last year.
Kent has recorded 14 homicides in a nearly nine-month period, doubling the number from the same time last year as the department works to solve these crimes and support victims' families, according to a police department spokesperson.
The increase comes amid a string of deadly incidents, including a homicide in the parking lot of the Kent-Des Moines Park & Ride and a gang-related shooting involving teenagers.
"You want to feel like anywhere is safe, and to hear that it’s gone up that much more recently [is] terrifying," said Kent resident Derek O’Bryan.
Kent police confirmed the city had recorded 14 homicides by the end of summer, compared to seven during the same time frame in 2025. Police said there is no clear pattern involving location, motive, or the circumstances surrounding the killings. The victims range in age from 16 to 69 and the incidents appeared to be targeted, and not random acts of violence.
"We also have a strong track record of solving homicides. Our homicide clearance rate has typically been 80% or higher annually. That means the vast majority of these cases are ultimately solved and those responsible are identified and held accountable. While an arrest can never restore the life that was lost, accountability can provide a measure of justice and closure for victims’ families," KPD Chief Rafael Padilla wrote in a statement to KOMO News. "We continually analyze these incidents for patterns, connections, and trends that could help us prevent future violence. If we identify an ongoing or specific threat to the public, we will communicate that information to our community."
The rise in violence has rattled some residents and visitors.
"This used to be such a chill, calm place, and now I’m hearing there are a lot more killings. It definitely hurts to hear," said Kent neighbor David Lopez.
Padilla said homicide investigations receive the highest level of departmental resources.
Of the 14 cases, arrests have been made in five, investigators are pursuing leads in another six, and suspects have not been identified in the remaining three.
