$40K Reward Offered in Brentwood Homicide Probe

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Authorities are offering a $40,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for a fatal Labor Day shooting in Northeast D.C. that claimed the life of a 36-year-old man.

The Shooting

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) reported that the shooting occurred around 4:16 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 1, in the 2300 block of 14th Street NE in the Brentwood neighborhood.

When Fifth District officers arrived, they discovered an adult male suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency responders rushed the victim to a nearby hospital, but despite medical intervention, he was pronounced dead.

The victim has been identified as Francois Adkins, 36, of Northwest D.C.

Reward Increased

To encourage tips, MPD initially offered up to $25,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction. That figure has since been bolstered by an additional $15,000 from the U.S. Marshals Service, bringing the total reward to $40,000.

Police say the substantial reward reflects the urgency of the case and their commitment to finding justice for Adkins and his family.

Community Concerns

The Brentwood community has expressed concern over the shooting, which took place in broad daylight on a holiday when families were outside enjoying the afternoon.

While officials have not released details on potential suspects or motives, the fatal shooting adds to growing anxiety about violent crime in the District. Residents say the reward is an important tool, but lasting change requires ongoing community engagement and stronger prevention strategies.

Police Appeal for Information

Authorities are urging anyone with knowledge about the incident to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and officials stressed that community members should not approach anyone they believe may be connected to the case.

Those with information can contact MPD at (202) 727-9099 or text anonymous tips to 50411.

“Every bit of information matters,” an MPD spokesperson said. “Even the smallest detail could be the key to solving this case.”

Ongoing Investigation

The case remains under active investigation. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from the area, interviewing witnesses, and canvassing the neighborhood for leads.

MPD emphasized that violent crime investigations often hinge on community cooperation, with eyewitness accounts and anonymous tips helping to fill critical gaps.

Remembering the Victim

Friends and neighbors described Francois Adkins as a loyal friend and caring family member. Though officials have released few personal details, his death has left a void in the lives of those who knew him. Community members have called for peace and justice, saying no family should have to endure the pain of losing a loved one to gun violence.

A Call for Action

The Brentwood homicide underscores the ongoing challenges D.C. faces in addressing violent crime. While officials continue to expand resources for law enforcement and prevention, families like the Adkinses are left grieving and demanding answers.

For now, police hope the increased reward will generate the leads needed to bring closure to this case.