WASHINGTON (7News) — A man was shot in Northeast Washington, D.C., on Saturday evening, just moments after former President Donald Trump declared that the city was now “100% safe” during remarks at a private dinner.
Shooting Near 8th and C Street, NE
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) confirmed that the shooting occurred around the intersection of 8th and C Street, Northeast. Officers arrived quickly on the scene and found a man suffering from a gunshot wound. Authorities reported that the victim was conscious and breathing when transported for medical care.
While police have not released additional details about the suspect or motive, the investigation is ongoing. No arrests had been announced as of late Saturday night.
Trump’s Remarks at Virginia Dinner
The shooting unfolded shortly after Trump returned from a private dinner in Mt. Vernon, Virginia. During his speech, the former president praised the federal government’s recent efforts in Washington, D.C., to address violent crime.
“We have a safe city,” Trump told attendees, boasting that the “scum is gone” following an intensified federal operation targeting criminal networks in the capital. His declaration came only minutes before the gunfire in Northeast D.C.
Contrasting Narratives on Crime in D.C.
Crime in Washington, D.C., has been a frequent political flashpoint. Federal and city leaders have wrestled with rising concerns over violent incidents, particularly shootings and carjackings. According to MPD statistics, overall violent crime has fluctuated in recent months, though the city continues to struggle with high-profile incidents that fuel public safety debates.
The shooting so soon after Trump’s comments highlights the ongoing complexity of ensuring public safety in the capital. Residents and officials alike remain divided on whether federal interventions have made meaningful progress or if challenges persist despite tough rhetoric.
Community and Political Response
Local leaders are expected to respond to the latest incident, particularly given the timing in relation to Trump’s remarks. Community activists have long emphasized the need for addressing root causes of crime—such as poverty, education, and youth outreach—rather than relying solely on federal crackdowns.
Meanwhile, Trump’s allies point to federal initiatives as evidence that crime can be reduced with stricter enforcement, while critics argue that his statements oversimplify a deeply rooted issue.
Ongoing Investigation
Police are urging anyone with information about the Saturday night shooting to contact MPD or submit anonymous tips through the department’s text line. The victim’s identity has not yet been released, and officials have not disclosed the extent of his injuries beyond confirming that he survived the initial attack.
As investigators continue to piece together what led to the shooting, the incident underscores the persistent challenge of violence in Washington, D.C.—even as national leaders debate whether the city can truly be called “safe.”
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