Fort Wayne officials are seeking solutions to escalating youth violence in the city, particularly following a recent shooting that left a 16-year-old dead and three injured, raising alarms within the community and law enforcement. The Fort Wayne Police Department reported 19 homicides in 2025, with a concerning number involving juveniles, prompting local leaders to propose increased police presence while stressing the need for community-based prevention efforts.
City officials are now eyeing Baltimore’s successful Comprehensive Violence Plan, which led to a significant 21.3% decrease in homicides and 19.5% in non-fatal shootings this year. The plan advocates viewing violence as a public health issue and emphasizes community engagement, including trusted messengers who work on the ground to foster communication and prevent retaliatory violence among youth. As Fort Wayne contemplates adapting similar methods, the potential for collaborative impact on local youth remains a pivotal point of discussion.
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