NCJ Number
170360
Date Published
1997
Length
15 pages
Annotation
The national homicide rate in Canada increased by 6 percent in 1996, following four straight annual declines; homicides increased from 588 in 1995 to 633 in 1996, and part of the increase in homicides in 1996 was due to an increase in multiple victim homicides.
Abstract
Most Canadian provinces and territories reported an increase in homicides, most notably Manitoba, Quebec, and Saskatchewan. The only homicide decreases were reported in Alberta, New Brunswick, and Yukon. In general, homicide rates increased from east to west. Manitoba had the highest provincial homicide rate in 1996, followed by British Columbia and Saskatchewan. Lowest provincial homicide rates were in Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland. Among the nine largest metropolitan areas, Winnipeg reported the highest homicide rate, followed by Vancouver, Calgary, and Hamilton. All categories of firearm homicides increased in 1996. While the 211 shootings were 20 percent higher in 1996 than in 1995, they were close to the previous 10-year average of 204. Firearms consistently accounted for about one-third of all homicides between 1979 and 1996. Males continued to account for two-thirds of all homicide victims and for almost 9 of 10 individuals accused of homicide. Homicides continued to be committed primarily by someone known to the victim. Spousal homicides decreased from 90 in 1995 to 80 in 1996, with females accounted for over 75 percent of victims. The youth homicide rate remained relatively stable between 1986 and 1996; an average of 59 young people were charged with homicide each year. 10 tables and 9 figures