Suicides outpacing homicides in Louisville in 2025, police say

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- It's a jarring statistic from Louisville Metro Police -- suicides in Louisville are outpacing homicides this year.

"This is the first time that we can recall that we've had more suicides than we've had homicides," LMPD Chief Paul Humphrey said.

This year through March 17, 40 people in Louisville have died by suicide. In previous years, that number has remained below 30 during the same time period.

Humphrey emphasized the importance of addressing suicide prevention efforts.

"Our job is to keep people alive," he said. "And victims of suicide deserve all of our attention."

Mental health experts said several factors may be contributing to the rise in suicides.

"Economic, political—there's lots of things that people might be dealing with at a higher level than historically," said Nancy Brooks of NAMI Louisville.

Data shows that white men are at the highest risk for suicide, with firearms being the most common method. As a result, mental health organizations such as Seven Counties Services and NAMI Louisville are advocating for the use of gun locks to prevent impulsive actions.

"Having that moment, that point in time in which you can maybe think about it again, or maybe have the chance to talk with someone—that outcome might be very different," said Liz McKune, chief operations officer of Seven Counties Services.

Another critical resource is the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which offers 24/7 support via call or text, connecting individuals with trained counselors.

"We have people trained on the other end of the line to help navigate those feelings and to help you get to the next step," McKune said.

Mental health professionals also stress the importance of intervention. If someone appears to be in crisis, they encourage others to reach out.

"I'd much rather feel a little uncomfortable having a conversation than getting a call later that something had happened to someone," McKune said.

Both NAMI and Seven Counties Services offer training in-person on how to handle those conversations.

Both organizations offer QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) training for organizations and businesses. The one- to two-hour program teachers people how to help spot warning signs of a mental health crisis and how to respond.

“You could be that person that gets them through that moment where, where the hope is lost and to the help that they need. So it's important to to reach out," said Brooks.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, help is available. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

For more information on NAMI Louisville, click here.

For more information on Seven Counties Services, click here.

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