The number of law enforcement officers in the U.S. who lost their lives in the line of duty saw a significant drop in 2025, reaching a level not observed since World War II. According to new information, the reported fatalities decreased from 148 in 2024 to 111 last year, with reductions across various causes of death, as per a report from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund released on Tuesday.
This reduction marks the lowest annual officer deaths since 1943, when 94 officers were killed on duty. Notably, deaths related to firearms declined by 15%, dropping from 52 in 2024 to 44 in 2025, which is the lowest figure recorded in a decade.
Bill Alexander, CEO of the foundation, expressed a desire to see fewer firearm-related deaths, noting that firearms often represent the worst behaviors. “Our ultimate goal is to get to zero, because even one police death is too many. But any reduction in that number is encouraging,” he shared.
Traffic-related fatalities also saw a nearly 23% year-over-year decline, which Alexander attributes to a heightened emphasis on roadside safety. Changes in police tactics, such as officers approaching vehicles from the passenger side, along with the implementation of various safety laws, might also play a role.
However, a decrease in overall deaths does not equate to fewer police shootings. The National Fraternal Order of Police tracks on-duty shootings, both fatal and non-fatal, but this count doesn’t include instances where an officer is fired upon but not hit. In fact, the recent report indicated a slight increase in fatalities from gunfire, rising from 342 in 2024 to 347 in 2025.
Although suicides are not included in this report, Alexander mentioned that the organization is actively discussing ways to honor and recognize these officers.
