Seattle is off to a bad start when it comes to violent crime.

With nine homicides this year (including one in West Seattle: the shooting death of 36-year-old Micheal Travis Hood on Jan. 21) and 11 additional aggravated assaults that resulted in injury, SPD Detectives are asking for the public's help in solving the unresolved crimes.

A table of this years violent crimes is included as a link above.

Press release from Det. Jeff Kappel:
Recently there has been an increase in violent crime in many of our neighborhoods. The Seattle Police Department views this increase as a public safety emergency.

To date, the Seattle Police Department is investigating nine homicides, and many shootings that could have easily become homicides.

Seattle Police detectives are investigating each and every one of these incidents, but they cannot solve these crimes alone. Investigators need the public’s assistance with information and tips if they are to solve cases.

Anyone with information on any of these crimes is urged to call the Seattle Police via the Homicide/Assault Tip Line at (206) 233-5000. Callers may remain anonymous if they wish.

In an effort to curb this recent increase in violence, the Seattle Police Department is implementing violence prevention emphasis patrols in every precinct of the city. The dedicated emphasis patrols will work collaboratively with the communities and other stake holders to ensure that residents and visitors can live without fear.