Murder rate above 2009, for now

With 10 days still before the New Year, the city is on the verge of once again reaching a dubious milestone: 300 murders.

Three killings overnight bring this year’s total to 296, up from 294 this time last year, but down from 320 in 2008.

In the first incident, John Day, 39, of the 3000 block of Emerald Street, was fatally wounded in a double shooting on the 5400 block of Locust Street. The second victim was in stable condition.

Two others died in separate shootings.