Washington County, Pennsylvania, situated in the southwestern region of the state, houses a population exceeding 200,000 people. Recognized for its historical and rural attractions like Meadowcroft Rockshelter, the David Bradford House, and Washington and Jefferson College, the county also grapples with crime and violence.
Variations in neighborhood safety exist within Washington County, with some locales being safer than others. Here are the five most perilous neighborhoods in the county, as indicated by crime data and assessments from diverse sources.
Washington
The city of Washington, with around 13,000 residents, serves as both the county seat and its largest city. Nestled along Chartiers Creek, it boasts a rich history as one of Pennsylvania’s oldest cities, featuring landmarks like the LeMoyne House, F. Julius LeMoyne Crematory, and PONY Baseball and Softball headquarters.
Nevertheless, Washington has a concerning crime rate, surpassing the national average by 102%. Its violent crime rate is a staggering 316% higher than the national average, with incidents occurring roughly every 18 minutes. This city maintains a population density of approximately 4,000 individuals per square mile, contributing to a potential 1 in 15 chance of falling victim to crime.
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Donora
The borough of Donora, housing roughly 4,000 residents, lies south of Washington along the Monongahela River. Established in 1900 as a steel mill town, it derives its name from investors William Donner and Nora Mellon.
Donora holds significance due to the infamous Donora Smog of 1948, which led to fatalities and widespread illness. However, crime remains a concern in Donora, exceeding the national average by 72%.
The violent crime rate is 184% higher than the national average, with incidents happening approximately every 25 minutes. With a population density of about 3,000 individuals per square mile, the likelihood of being a crime victim could be as high as 1 in 19.
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Monongahela
Monongahela, a city with roughly 4,000 inhabitants, is situated south of Washington along the Monongahela River. Settled in 1769, its name stems from a Native American term meaning “falling banks.”
Noteworthy sites such as Chess Park, the Monongahela Aquatorium, and Monongahela Cemetery enrich its historical landscape. Yet, Monongahela wrestles with crime, exceeding the national average by 66%.
The violent crime rate is 167% higher than the national average, and incidents occur roughly every 27 minutes. With a population density of around 2,000 individuals per square mile, the likelihood of being affected by crime may be as high as 1 in 21.
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Canonsburg
The borough of Canonsburg, home to approximately 9,000 residents, is situated north of Washington along Interstate 79. Established in 1802, it boasts a musical heritage as the birthplace of Perry Como and Bobby Vinton.
Nonetheless, Canonsburg contends with crime rates exceeding the national average by 59%. The violent crime rate is 150% higher than the national average, and incidents occur around every 29 minutes. Its population density, approximately 4,000 individuals per square mile, contributes to a potential 1 in 23 chance of experiencing crime.
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Charleroi
Charleroi, a borough of about 4,000 residents, lies south of Washington along the Monongahela River. Founded in 1890 by Belgian investors, it draws attention through cultural and recreational attractions like the Charleroi Historical Society, Charleroi Stadium, and Charleroi Community Park. Despite its appeal, Charleroi struggles with crime rates surpassing the national average by 50%.
The violent crime rate is 127% higher than the national average, with incidents occurring approximately every 31 minutes. The borough’s population density, roughly 3,000 individuals per square mile, contributes to a potential 1 in 25 chance of being affected by crime.
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Conclusion
These five neighborhoods in Washington County, Pennsylvania, emerge as the most dangerous based on available data. While acknowledging these statistics, it remains crucial to remember that crime can arise anywhere and at any time.
Maintaining vigilance, staying aware of surroundings, locking doors and windows, avoiding secluded areas at night, promptly reporting suspicious activities to the authorities, and considering home security systems are prudent steps for residents and visitors alike.
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