Murder Statistics

With the disturbing news this morning that APD found two victims dead of stab wounds in north central Austin, the Public Information Office has released this snapshot of Austin murders over the years:

16 in 2007 (year-to-date), 20 in 2006, 26 in 2005, 27 in 2004, 27 in 2003, 25 in 2002, 28 in 2001, 33 in 2000, 27 in 1999, 31 in 1998, 40 in 1997.

After the fold, the press release on the grisly discovery early this morning …

From the Austin Police Department:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, July 11, 2007
Contact: Public Information Office

MURDER

Case: 07-1920310

Date: Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Time: 4:13 a.m.

Location: 11701 Metric Boulevard, #212

Deceased: Hispanic Male, age unknown, Hispanic Male, age unknown

Narrative: At approximately 4:13 a.m. Austin Police Department North Central patrol officers responded to a stabbing call at 11701 Metric Boulevard. When officers arrived at the scene, they located two deceased males inside the apartment. It appears both victims suffered stab wounds.

Officers were able to determine that the suspect lived in the apartment complex and located the apartment where he resides. Adam Castillo, 30 (DOB: 10-15-76) was taken into custody in the area of his apartment. Formal charges are pending.

There was a disturbance between Castillo and the two victims. Preliminary information indicates that Castillo and the victims knew one another.

Individuals with information are asked to call the Homicide tip line at 477-3588 or Crime Stoppers at 472-8477. Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 for information. These are the 15th and 16th murders in 2007.

Media Advisory: The names of the deceased are not being released pending positive identification and notification of family members. A booking photo of Castillo will be released when it becomes available.