How Wilmington is shedding its ‘Murder Town’ label

In 2017, Wilmington experienced its highest levels of gun violence ever. But the following year, shootings dropped by 60%.

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Wilmington Police Chief Robert J. Tracy with resident Robert Flonnory on Market Street. Tracy has been credited with bringing down the crime rate in the city by building bridges within communities. (Cris Barrish/WHYY)

Wilmington Police Chief Robert J. Tracy with resident Robert Flonnory on Market Street. Tracy has been credited with bringing down the crime rate in the city by building bridges within communities. (Cris Barrish/WHYY)

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In 2017, Wilmington experienced its highest levels of gun violence ever. But the following year, shootings dropped by 60%. WHYY reporters Mark Eichmann and Cris Barrish explain why the city once dubbed “Murder Town USA” was able to bounce back so quickly. Their documentary “Rebound from Murder Town” debuts Sunday at 6 p.m. on WHYY-TV.

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