East Palo Alto Reports No Homicides In 2023

EAST PALO, CA — Leaders in East Palo Alto rang in the new year with some extra cheer, celebrating a year of no homicides within city limits.

In a weekly update shared on New Year's Day, police chief Jeff Liu took a moment to reflect on the progress made in the city in 2023 and the stark contrast to public safety challenges faced in the past.

"Together, we celebrate a momentous milestone in 2023: the East Palo Alto community, once marked by adversity, has triumphed with zero murders this past year," Liu said. "Your collective commitment to safety and unity has transformed our city, evolving from the challenges of 1992 when we faced 42 murders, to now, a community that stands resilient and stronger than ever. I extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for your invaluable partnership in fostering a safer and thriving East Palo Alto. This achievement is a testament to the power of community, and I am proud to share in this success with all of you."

East Palo Alto Mayor Antonio Lopez also shared his gratitude to the community and celebrated the success with some of the city's newest leaders.

"I am grateful to the leadership of City Manager Melvin Gaines and Chief of Police Jeff Liu, both long-time public servants for the city who in their first years under their new roles have delivered," Lopez said in a statement. "Together, we will usher a safer, more prosperous East Palo Alto!"

Bay City News contributed to this report.