New strategies aimed at dealing with the surge in killings in Fresno

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Gang violence fueled by feuds, rivalries, and leadership struggles lead to a surge in homicides this year. Fresno Police Chief Jerry Dyer said his officers will intensify efforts to target gang leaders, but they will also be going after the other leading causes of homicide-- domestic violence, mental health, and homelessness.

"Three of the cases involved a son murdering his mother. Two of the cases involve a husband murdering a wife, and then killing himself. Four of the cases involve a suspect and or the victim having an issue with mental health, and then six of the cases involve a victim, or the suspect, being homeless or out on the street."

Dyer said officers will launch round the clock efforts to arrest suspects in domestic violence cases, before abuse turns into murder.

A task force to deal with suspects with mental health issues is also being formed with medical professionals, and there will be a renewed focus on the homeless, who the Chief said are not just folks who are down and out.

"We know they are involved in drug trade, they are often armed with weapons, they are victimizing people, they have warrants, they are on probation," said Dyer.

Dyer also noted it has been a bad month for shootings. There have been 42 in the past 28 days where nobody was hit; however, stray bullets hit cars, homes, and businesses, creating a real potential danger.

Overall though, the city's crime rate is down by more than eight-percent.