Homicide rates this year are showing declines in D.C. and suburban Maryland but appear to be holding roughly steady in the inner suburbs of Northern Virginia, most recent statistics show.

With 2006 coming to a close, the region’s two deadliest jurisdictions likely will end the year with dramatic cuts to their homicide rates, according to information provided by police departments. The District has recorded 156 homicides this year, 40 fewer than last year. Prince George’s County, which saw 169 homicides in 2005, has had 121 this year.