Homicide Deaths Rise by Almost a Fifth but Remain Scotland’s Fourth

Homicides in Scotland rise from record low

The number of people who were killed in Scotland last year was almost a fifth higher than the record low of the previous year.

Homicide deaths rise by almost a fifth but remain Scotland’s fourth

Two-thirds of women were killed by a partner or ex-partner

Homicide in Scotland trend still significantly down, 37% in last 5 years, 60% since last Labour government and only 25% among the young of that 20 years ago

From Homicide in Scotland 2025-26 published yesterday: In 2025-26, 56 victims of homicide were recorded, 19% (or nine victims) more than the 47 victims recorded in 2024-25 (Table 1). This is the fourth lowest number of recorded homicide victims since comparable records began in 1976. Over the latest 10 year period from 2016-17 to 2025-26, the number of victims fell by 14% (or nine victims) from 65 to 56. Over the latest 20 year period from 2006-…

Homicide in Scotland rising with women most likely to be killed by partners or exes

Six women last year were accused of homicide in comparison to 75 men, the Scottish Government said.