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The number of homicides in the city of Tucson this year is about double the number at this time last year.

Of the 24 homicides reported to both the Pima County Sheriff's Department and the Tucson Police Department, 21 of them are being investigated by police — a big jump from this time last year, when 11 homicides were reported in the city.

There were 54 slayings reported within the city limits by the end of 2007. The city recorded its 21st homicide last year in late May.

The increase in violent crime prompted Tucson police to conduct special deployments in target areas focusing on prostitution, gang and narcotics activity — commonly known precursors to violent crime.

While Tucson police maintain that lifestyle choices, including dealing in drugs or gangs, increase the chances of becoming a victim of homicide, several cases this year do not fit into that category.

In the first slaying of the year, a teen was shot to death as he walked home from a late movie with a friend. On March 5, a cabdriver was fatally shot during his shift. The motive in both cases is believed to be robbery.

Last week, the body of a 66-year-old woman was found in the back of her car. Authorities believe she was shot to death by a woman who sold her health products.

In the county, the number of reported homicides has decreased from 11 at this time in 2007 to three thus far in 2008.