DETROIT (WKZO) -- The number of homicides in Detroit this year are on the rise.

According to unofficial statistics from the Detroit Police Department, approximately 260 homicides have been reported so far this year.  That's a 4.4-percent increase compared to the same period last year.

The statistics show a spike in  homicides and aggravated assaults with guns between August 31st and September 7th.  During that period there were 15-shooting incidents that killed 17 people.