YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – As we begin the new year, we're taking a look back at crimes that occurred in the Yuma area in 2023.

While the Yuma Police Department (YPD) says crime has increased over the past year, the Yuma County Sheriff's Office (YCSO) has reported a decrease in incidents.

In 2022, there were five murders in Yuma, one of which was a double murder, with a total of six victims.

“In 2023, there was a slight increase in the number of cases. There were seven murders, including three double murders, with a total of 10 victims,” ​​said YPD Officer Cristina Fernandez. Told.

The biggest increase in YPD has been attempted murders, with only 9 attempted murders in 2022. But by 2023, that number will double.

“There were a total of 18 cases regarding attempted murder.”

Meanwhile, in 2022, Yuma County investigated nine murders, including 11 victims and three attempted murders.

”[Last year]”The Yuma County Sheriff's Office investigated a total of four homicides, including four victims and two attempted murders,” said YCSO Public Information Officer (PIO) Tania Pavlak.

YPD says the May 2023 house party shooting was the most serious incident. Police said seven people were shot just before 11 p.m., leaving two young men, aged just 19 and 20, dead.

Jose Lopez and Abraham Collins, both 19, were arrested on suspicion of double murder and remain in the Yuma County Jail.

That same month, YCSO also investigated its largest case.

“This incident, known as the Georgina Montoya incident, involved an unresponsive female found near a date palm grove at 1 East 18th Street. She was later pronounced dead at the scene,” Pavlak said. said.

Pavlak said the incident was later ruled a homicide. The suspect in Montoya's murder has not yet been arrested, so if you have any information, please remain anonymous by calling YCSO or 78-CRIME.