PITTSBURGH – Public Safety and Police Bureau officials gathered in the Mayor’s Conference Room on Monday to discuss the final 2018 crime statistics.

Officials say that the numbers show progress. Homicides and shootings have decreased, but work still remains in Pittsburgh.

“Every year since 2014, we have seen a decrease in the number of homicides that have occurred in this city,” said Mayor Bill Peduto. “However, that’s still not good enough. Our goal is to eradicate gun violence in our city.”

There were 71 homicides in 2014. The total dropped to 60 in 2015, 59 in 2016, 58 in 2017 and 55 in 2018.

Over the past several years, homicides and shootings have trended downwards in the city of Pittsburgh. That trend continued in 2018.

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Press conference ➡️ https://t.co/V4hN9hG4j4 pic.twitter.com/KKBJNmyUhm

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“Some of the accomplishments have to do with the staffing of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police,” Director Wendell Hissrich said. “Thanks to the mayor and city council, our staffing levels have increased dramatically over the last several years allowing more officers to be on the street.”

Additionally, police began creating the Group Violence Intervention Unit, which offers guidance for residents to escape violence and crime.

Police Chief Scott Schubert recognizes his officers for their commitment to getting rid of illegal firearms.

“Our job is not done,” said Chief Schubert. “We still have a lot to do. But I’m very, very proud of the work of the Pittsburgh Police, day in and day out.”

Watch the full press conference, click here.