WASHINGTON, D.C. – A man was killed early Thursday morning after being struck by two vehicles in a Northeast alley, with both drivers fleeing the scene, police said. The incident is now under investigation as a fatal hit-and-run.
Discovery of the Victim
At approximately 5:20 a.m. on August 14, officers from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Fifth District responded to the rear alley of the 1600 block of Benning Road NE. Upon arrival, officers found an unconscious man lying in the alleyway.
Emergency crews with D.C. Fire and EMS attempted to render aid, but the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
The deceased has been identified as 34-year-old Deon Cherry, a man with no fixed address, according to police.
Investigation: Two Vehicles Involved
A preliminary investigation by MPD’s Major Crash Unit revealed that Cherry was struck by two separate vehicles in the alleyway. Authorities said both drivers fled the scene without stopping to render aid or call for help.
Police have not yet released descriptions of the vehicles or the drivers. Detectives are reviewing area surveillance footage and canvassing for witnesses in hopes of gathering leads.
Community Shock
The incident has rattled residents in the neighborhood, where Benning Road serves as both a commercial and residential artery. “To think that someone could be hit not once, but twice, and left there like that—it’s horrifying,” one neighbor said. “We need more accountability for reckless drivers.”
Community advocates have long raised concerns about pedestrian safety and traffic enforcement in parts of Northeast, where narrow streets and alleys often lack proper lighting and speed control measures.
Police Call for Information
MPD is urging anyone with information about the case to step forward. Tips can be provided by calling (202) 727-9099 or by texting 50411 anonymously.
Officials stressed that cooperation from the public is often crucial in solving hit-and-run cases, especially when drivers quickly flee the scene and there are no immediate witnesses.
Broader Hit-and-Run Problem
The tragedy highlights a troubling pattern of hit-and-run incidents in the District. According to traffic safety data, D.C. has seen a rise in fatal crashes in recent years, many involving pedestrians and cyclists. Hit-and-runs, in particular, remain difficult to prosecute without public assistance or video evidence.
Advocates say the issue reflects not only reckless driving but also systemic challenges in traffic enforcement, road design, and ensuring accountability for drivers.
Remembering the Victim
Though police reported Cherry had no fixed address, advocates for the unhoused community stressed that his death underscores the vulnerability of individuals without stable housing. “People experiencing homelessness are often at greater risk of traffic violence because they walk more and spend more time outdoors,” one advocate noted.
Key Points Recap
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Time/Location: Around 5:20 a.m. on Aug. 14, in the 1600 block of Benning Road NE.
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Victim: Identified as 34-year-old Deon Cherry, who had no fixed address.
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Cause: Cherry was struck by two vehicles in the alley. Both drivers fled without stopping.
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Status: MPD’s Major Crash Unit is leading the investigation. No suspect descriptions have been released.
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Public Appeal: Anyone with information is urged to call police at (202) 727-9099 or text tips to 50411.
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, Cherry’s death serves as a stark reminder of the dangers pedestrians face in D.C. neighborhoods. Police say holding the drivers accountable will depend heavily on witnesses and community cooperation.
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