The Austin Police Department (APD) Homicide Unit has announced a groundbreaking achievement: a 100% clearance rate for all homicides committed in 2023. This marks the first time the unit has reached this milestone in nearly two decades, with the last instance being in 2005. The final arrest, made on May 7, 2025, in connection with a case from October 14, 2023, ensured the complete resolution of all 75 homicide investigations from the previous year.
This accomplishment is particularly significant given the substantial increase in homicides compared to 2005, when Austin recorded 26. The 2023 national homicide clearance rate stands at 57.8%, highlighting the exceptional work of the Austin Homicide Unit.
APD Homicide Sergeant Nathan Sexton credited the achievement to the community’s commitment to justice and accountability, stating, “We feel this achievement is a reflection of our community who cares about justice and holding their fellow citizens accountable for taking the lives of others. This in turn has helped make our community a safer place. This is a proud moment for our Unit. Reaching this level of resolution is a reflection of the dedication, innovation, and relentless pursuit of justice for the families of homicide victims.”…