How Many Police Were Killed in 2023?
As of the end of 2023, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) has reported that at least 145 law enforcement officers have been killed in the line of duty in the United States. This number includes both federal, state, and local law enforcement officers who have died as a result of injuries sustained while performing their duties.
Line of Duty Deaths by Cause
The NLEOMF reports that the leading cause of line of duty deaths in 2023 is traffic-related incidents, accounting for 64% of all fatalities. This includes accidents while responding to emergency calls, pursuits, and other traffic-related incidents.
- Vehicle-related incidents: 93 officers killed
- Gunfire: 24 officers killed
- Other causes: 28 officers killed
Regional Breakdown
The NLEOMF also reports that the number of line of duty deaths varies by region. The top 5 regions with the highest number of fatalities are:
| Region | Number of Fatalities |
|---|---|
| South: 44 officers killed | |
| West: 33 officers killed | |
| Midwest: 26 officers killed | |
| Northeast: 21 officers killed | |
| Mid-Atlantic: 15 officers killed |
Rank and File Officers Most Affected
The NLEOMF reports that rank and file officers are the most affected by line of duty deaths, accounting for 81% of all fatalities. This includes officers with the rank of officer, sergeant, and lieutenant.
- Police officers: 117 officers killed
- Deputy sheriffs: 12 officers killed
- State troopers: 6 officers killed
- Federal agents: 5 officers killed
- Corrections officers: 5 officers killed
States with the Highest Number of Fatalities
The NLEOMF reports that the top 5 states with the highest number of line of duty deaths are:
| State | Number of Fatalities |
|---|---|
| Texas: 15 officers killed | |
| California: 12 officers killed | |
| Florida: 10 officers killed | |
| Georgia: 9 officers killed | |
| Ohio: 8 officers killed |
Conclusion
The number of police officers killed in the line of duty in 2023 is a sobering reminder of the risks and sacrifices that law enforcement officers make every day to keep their communities safe. As we reflect on the lives lost, we must also acknowledge the bravery and dedication of the men and women who serve and protect us.
Additional Resources
For more information on line of duty deaths and the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, please visit their website at www.nleomf.org.
Table: Line of Duty Deaths by Cause
| Cause | Number of Fatalities |
|---|---|
| Vehicle-related incidents | 93 |
| Gunfire | 24 |
| Other causes | 28 |
| Total | 145 |
Table: Regional Breakdown
| Region | Number of Fatalities |
|---|---|
| South | 44 |
| West | 33 |
| Midwest | 26 |
| Northeast | 21 |
| Mid-Atlantic | 15 |
| Total | 145 |
Table: Rank and File Officers Most Affected
| Rank | Number of Fatalities |
|---|---|
| Police officers | 117 |
| Deputy sheriffs | 12 |
| State troopers | 6 |
| Federal agents | 5 |
| Corrections officers | 5 |
| Total | 145 |
