Chaos in Northeast D.C.: Over 140 Rounds Fired, Church and Homes Riddled With Bullets

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A terrifying shootout unfolded Wednesday night in Northeast Washington, D.C., as more than 140 bullets were fired across a residential community, striking cars, homes, and even a church. The chaos erupted near the Pentacle and Bates Courts apartments, leaving residents rattled and demanding immediate action from local leaders.

Shootout Leaves Residents and Churchgoers Scrambling

The shootout occurred around 11 p.m. near 15th Street and Benning Road NE, according to the Metropolitan Police Department. Authorities say two groups exchanged gunfire in a violent confrontation that left a trail of destruction.

Surveillance footage from Solid Rock Perfecting Church shows just how close innocent lives came to being caught in the crossfire. A family with young children and a baby had just stepped outside the church when the bullets began to fly. Moments later, the church roof was pierced by gunfire.

“It’s unnerving,” said Crystal Diallo, Senior Administrator at the church. “I’m not someone who scares easily, but this has shaken us. It’s not just happening at night anymore—it’s any time: morning, noon, or evening.”

Neighborhood Under Siege

The sheer number of bullets—more than 140—left a visible impact:

Car windows and doors blown out
Homes riddled with bullet holes
Bullet damage inside the church

One individual involved in the shooting was reportedly shot in the leg and is in stable condition, police say. Meanwhile, the suspects—believed to number at least four—are still being sought.

Residents are growing increasingly concerned about the escalating violence in the area. Many blame deteriorating safety around the Horning Brothers-owned apartments, citing frequent robberies and carjackings.

“People are dropping like flies over here,” said Deborah Warren, a neighbor who lives nearby. “I’ve seen a body picked up across the street from me. The shots sounded like they were coming straight into my wall.”

A Community Crying Out for Help

Diallo, who was seen sweeping up broken glass and debris inside the church, echoed what many in the community are feeling—exhaustion and fear.

“We’re trying our best to serve the community,” she said. “But at this point, we’re just watching each other’s backs. That’s how we’ve been surviving.”

Both Diallo and Warren expressed frustration with city leaders, stating they have not seen their local ANC commissioners or councilmembers on the ground in the wake of ongoing violence.

When asked by 7News about his efforts, ANC Commissioner Marc Friend responded that he had recently organized a peace walk and summit and is currently advocating for more funding for violence interrupters, youth programs, and a community library.

Officials React—But Is It Enough?

7News also reached out to Councilmembers Charles Allen and Wendell Felder, as the neighborhood sits at the boundary between their districts. Felder’s office did not respond before the time of publication. Allen’s office initially said they were unsure if police had provided an update but later issued a statement:

“While this violence didn’t take place in the Ward I represent, violence anywhere deeply impacts Ward 6 neighbors, our city, and is unacceptable. I’ve heard from MPD that the victim is in stable condition and thankfully, expected to recover. MPD will also be placing additional resources in that area.”

Despite this promise, many residents say the increased police presence is long overdue and fear it may only be temporary.