Teen Shot on North Capitol Street in Northwest DC

WASHINGTON (7News) — A 17-year-old boy was shot Wednesday afternoon in the Truxton Circle neighborhood of Northwest Washington, D.C., according to police.

Incident Details

Authorities said officers responded around 4:40 p.m. to the 1400 block of North Capitol Street, NW, after reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they discovered the teen suffering from a gunshot wound.

A police spokeswoman confirmed that the victim was transported to a nearby trauma center. He was last reported to be “conscious and breathing.”

No Suspect Information Released

As of Wednesday evening, investigators had not released any suspect information or potential motive for the shooting. Detectives were seen canvassing the area, speaking with witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby buildings.

Pattern of Teen Violence in the City

This incident follows a troubling pattern of gun violence involving young people across the District in recent weeks. Just days earlier, police reported that two teenage boys were shot in Northeast D.C., and another teen allegedly fired at a group in the Navy Yard area, though no one was injured in that case.

Community leaders have expressed growing concern about the increase in youth-involved shootings. Many are calling for stronger community engagement, after-school programs, and conflict intervention strategies to prevent young people from turning to violence.

Community Impact

Residents of Truxton Circle described the shooting as alarming but not entirely surprising. The neighborhood, while undergoing redevelopment in recent years, has continued to see sporadic violent crime. “We hear about shootings too often,” one resident said. “It makes it hard for families to feel safe.”

Police have urged anyone with information about Wednesday’s shooting to come forward, stressing that community cooperation is critical in helping investigators solve the case and prevent further incidents.

Ongoing Investigation

The Metropolitan Police Department is asking anyone with tips to contact them directly or submit information anonymously through the department’s tip line. Detectives continue to work the case and said more updates will be provided as new information becomes available.