Homicides rise in Scotland – and most women killed were murdered by a partner or ex

The number of homicides in Scotland has risen, and new figures reveal that women who were killed were most likely to have died at the hands of a partner or former partner.

Scottish Government statistics show 56 victims of homicide were recorded in 2025-26, up 19% from 47 the previous year. Of those, 41 were men and 15 were women.

Who is most at risk?

Two-thirds of male victims were killed by an acquaintance. But for women, ten of the 15 victims, 67%, were killed by a partner or ex-partner.

Six women and 75 men were accused of homicide during the year.

The median age of victims rose to 40.

Long-term fall

Despite the rise, this year's total is the fourth lowest since comparable records began in 1976. Over the last ten years, the number of victims has fallen by 14%, and over 20 years by 54%. The biggest fall has been among young people aged 16 to 24.

Knives still the biggest killer

For each of the last 20 years, a sharp instrument has been the most common method of killing. In 2025-26 it accounted for 52% of victims. Campaigners continue to warn about knife crime among young people.

'A devastating loss behind every statistic'

Justice Secretary Neil Gray said that behind every figure was a devastating loss. He said the long-term decline reflects sustained work to prevent violence, but that the figures on women reinforce the government's determination to tackle violence against women and girls. A national review process for deaths linked to domestic abuse began in April.

Debbie Adams of Victim Support Scotland said each figure represents a much-loved family member, and that the persistence of knife killings shows the challenge facing Scotland.

Victim Support Scotland can be contacted on 0800 160 1985. Anyone affected by domestic abuse can call Scotland's Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline on 0800 027 1234.