WASHINGTON, D.C. — A Maryland man has been charged in connection with a string of bizarre and violent robberies across Washington, D.C., in which he allegedly used a fire extinguisher to spray store clerks before stealing cash.
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced that Rahman Barnes, 42, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, faces multiple robbery charges tied to a series of incidents that occurred in April 2024.
A Disturbing Pattern of Armed Robbery
According to MPD detectives, the unusual crime spree began on April 15, 2024, at a convenience store on Hawaii Avenue NE. Barnes allegedly entered the store, took several items off the shelves, and approached the counter. Once there, he reportedly grabbed a fire extinguisher and sprayed the clerk in the face, creating chaos before stealing money from the register and fleeing.
Two days later, on April 17, Barnes allegedly struck again—this time at a store along 3rd Street NE. Surveillance footage reportedly shows him entering the premises, immediately spraying the extinguisher at people inside, and grabbing cash from the register before running out.
The crime spree continued with another incident on April 18, at a convenience store located on Columbia Road NW. In similar fashion, Barnes used a fire extinguisher to blind and disorient the store employee before making off with stolen money.
Police believe the final robbery in the series occurred on April 23 at a shop on 14th Street NW, where Barnes again used the fire extinguisher to incapacitate a store clerk before looting the register.
In each case, Barnes used the fire extinguisher as a weapon to temporarily disable store employees, making it easier to carry out the thefts.
Arrest and Charges
Following an investigation by MPD detectives, a warrant for Barnes’ arrest was issued by the D.C. Superior Court on May 1, 2024. At the time, Barnes was already being detained in Prince George’s County, Maryland, on unrelated charges.
This week, Barnes was extradited to Washington, D.C., where he is now facing charges in connection with the four armed robberies.
MPD also released an image showing Barnes holding a fire extinguisher, allegedly moments before one of the robberies. The photo, captured from surveillance footage, is being used as evidence to support the charges.
Unusual Tactics and Community Concerns
The use of a fire extinguisher in each robbery has raised alarms within the community, not just for its violent nature but for its unpredictability. Store employees and customers were left shaken by the incidents, with several businesses reviewing their in-store security protocols in response.
While fire extinguishers are not considered deadly weapons, their misuse—especially in a confined space—can cause significant harm, including temporary blindness, breathing difficulties, and panic among victims.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have not ruled out the possibility that Barnes may be connected to other crimes in the region. Investigators are reviewing additional surveillance footage and seeking tips from the public.
Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact the Metropolitan Police Department.
As of now, Barnes remains in custody in Washington, D.C., awaiting a court appearance.
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