Murders decreasing in Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - 12 people were murdered in the city of Springfield this year; it’s a decrease from the 19 people who were killed in Springfield in 2011, and the 16 murders in 2010.

But just because there were fewer murders this year, doesn't mean the ones that did happen were any less violent.

Among those killed this year was Officer Kevin Ambrose, who was shot in the line of duty in June while responding to a domestic dispute call.

Prior to Officer Ambrose's death, no Springfield police officers had been killed since back in 1985, when Officers Beauregard and Schiavina were shot.

One Springfield resident told 22News he does feel safer now in Springfield than in the past, and he credits it to increased patrols.

Galen Young told 22News, “You see them around going up and down the streets and making their presence known that they're there to support us if we need them. I think the police do a great job all in all. I don't think they get enough credit for what they do for the city. “

It's a similar story in some of Springfield's neighboring communities as well.

There were no murders in the city of Holyoke this year.

Their new Police Chief James Neiswanger took over in the summer.