PIKE COUNTY POSTS HIGHEST PER-CAPITA DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOMICIDE RATE IN ILLINOIS

PITTSFIELD, IL — Pike County recorded the highest per-capita domestic violence homicide rate in Illinois in 2025, according to the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence's annual homicide report.

The county recorded three domestic violence-related deaths during the year, producing a rate of 26.1 deaths per 100,000 residents. That compares with a statewide rate of 0.8 per 100,000. Statewide, 72 separate domestic violence incidents resulted in 101 fatalities, while the overall number of domestic violence homicides declined 26 percent from 2024.

Pike County's total included an October 2025 double homicide in New Canton. By comparison, neighboring Morgan, Cass, Scott, Greene, Brown and Schuyler counties recorded no domestic violence homicides during 2025.

The numbers also highlight challenges that can be especially severe in rural communities. Victims may face longer law-enforcement response times, fewer available attorneys, potential conflicts that reduce legal options, and fewer nearby shelter beds and financial resources. Land of Lincoln Legal Aid has increased outreach in western Illinois and reports more people seeking help and orders of protection as awareness of available services grows.

Emergency orders of protection can be requested through county courthouses during normal business hours. People seeking legal help or representation can contact Land of Lincoln Legal Aid at 877-342-7891. Additional information and court forms are available through Illinois Legal Aid Online.