[Homicides in Copenhagen in 1984-1989 compared with the period 1959-1983]

During the years from 1959 to 1983 the Copenhagen homicide rate doubled. This increase was due mainly to an increase in the number of "accidental" homicides committed by alcohol intoxicated males, who were only slightly acquainted with their victims. The rate of homicide committed by schizophrenic persons increased by a factor 5, increasing from 1-2 cases every five years to 1-2 cases every year. During the 1980's, the annual homicide rate has been stable. In the investigation of homicide from 1984 to 1989, however, the tendency towards more homicides of accidental type was confirmed. Furthermore, the rate of female homicide increased. During the years from 1984 to 1989 the average number of homicides committed in Copenhagen by schizophrenic persons remained in the order of 1-2 per year.