Murders Down, Shootings Up In 2014

(CBS) – It was good news-bad news in 2014, when comparing murder and shooting statistics, Chicago police say.

The number of murders in Chicago was down 3 percent compared the previous year. The number equates to the fewest since 1965.

Overall, crime -- that includes offenses like robbery and burglary -- is also down, 15 percent.

Now, the bad news: CPD notes shootings are up 12 percent.

Police say the increasing shooting trend is bolstered by illegal guns and lax gun laws in surrounding areas.

Authorities say this past year they recovered nearly 7,000 illegal firearms -- that's more than any city in the country.

So, how are murders down and shootings up?

Police say preventive programs may be helping. It's also possible improvements in medical care made a difference in keeping shooting victims alive.

In:
• Shooting
• Chicago Police Department