Adams and Tisch Announce Seizure of 3,000 Illegal Guns in NYC

Progress in Combating Gun Violence in New York City

Mayor Eric Adams and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch have announced significant progress in the fight against gun violence in New York City. This year alone, 3,000 illegal guns have been seized from the streets, contributing to a total of over 22,700 guns removed since the start of the mayor's administration.

The reduction in firearms has had a measurable impact on public safety. According to officials, there has been a 54% decrease in shootings and a 36% reduction in homicides. Mayor Adams expressed his pride in these achievements, emphasizing that each gun taken off the streets represents a life saved and a community made safer. He highlighted that public safety is the foundation for all other efforts in the city, and the past three and a half years have seen improvements in making streets, subways, and neighborhoods safer for all New Yorkers.

Adams also reiterated his commitment to increasing the number of officers in the city, recognizing the critical role they play in maintaining order and preventing crime. NYPD Commissioner Tisch echoed this sentiment, stating that the removal of 3,000 guns has had an undeniable positive effect on public safety, with results already being observed.

Record-Low Shooting Numbers

In the first half of 2025, New York City recorded the lowest number of shooting victims ever documented in a six-month period. Additionally, the number of shooting incidents tied with the previous record low set in 2018. These statistics reflect the effectiveness of the city’s ongoing efforts to combat gun violence.

Despite these successes, challenges remain. Officials acknowledged that while overall shootings have decreased, there are still concerning levels of youth involvement in violent crimes. Community activists, such as Yanely Henriquez, mother of Angellyh Yambo, who was a victim of a shooting involving a ghost gun in 2022, have played a vital role in advocating for change.

Assembly member Chantel Jackson emphasized that although New York has some of the strictest gun laws at the state level, many weapons still end up in areas like the Bronx. She called on federal partners to take action to protect young people from gun violence.

Continued Success and Ongoing Challenges

The decline in gun violence continued into June 2025, with a 30% reduction in shooting incidents compared to the same month the previous year. This translated to 125 fewer shooting victims. The trend extended into the first quarter of 2025, which saw a 23.1% drop in shootings—the lowest number of shooting incidents recorded for any quarter in the city’s history.

NYPD Commissioner Tisch also highlighted the department’s efforts to dismantle violent gangs. This year alone, the NYPD has conducted 48 gang takedowns, resulting in the arrest of 347 gang members and associates. These operations have contributed to the broader goal of reducing violence in the city.

Ghost Guns and Their Impact

Among the 22,700 guns seized, 1,500 were classified as ghost guns—firearms without serial numbers that are nearly impossible to trace. These weapons are often assembled using kits or manufactured through 3D printers, making them particularly dangerous and difficult to regulate.

Officials continue to emphasize the importance of addressing the issue of ghost guns, as they pose a significant threat to public safety. The city remains committed to implementing measures that will further reduce the availability of these untraceable weapons.

As New York City continues its efforts to create a safer environment for residents, the collaboration between law enforcement, community leaders, and local officials remains crucial. With sustained focus and innovation, the city aims to build on its recent successes and make lasting improvements in the fight against gun violence.