Chance Encounters

Social workers and violence prevention specialists hit the streets to try and solve Rochester's social ills.

Rochester Democrat & Chronicle reporter Justin Murphy discusses his investigative report on Rochester's tree canopy, its disparities, and the link to heat and violence. 

An uptick in car thefts threatens public safety and fuels negative stereotypes throughout Rochester. 

Rochester's unhouse population is at risk on sweltering days. From living in their car to living on the street, the heat threatens the safety of those caught on the fringes. 

Rochester Police Officer Moses Robinson examines the chance encounters that lead to gun violence. Teenagers Cam Mixson and Brian Boose try to maintain summer traditions. Hannah Gilmore shares her son's story and hopes for redemption after his 20-year prison sentence for murder.

The City on Fire podcast by USA TODAY Network examines the effect rising temperatures have on public safety in Rochester, New York. In this city, and across the Northeast, violent crime increases with the temperature, and people living on the fringes struggle to survive the elements.