WASHINGTON, D.C. — A late-night attack by a large group of juveniles left a Northeast D.C. convenience store damaged, an employee injured, and thousands of dollars in products destroyed or stolen, according to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
The incident happened around 11:40 p.m. Friday at Best Tobacco & Wireless, located at 1536 Benning Road NE. Police say more than 50 minors descended on the store, smashing its glass door, stealing merchandise, and throwing food and drinks at employees.
Violence and Vandalism Inside the Store
According to an MPD report obtained by 7News, the juveniles targeted store employees with chips, candy, and drinks — one of which struck an employee’s foot, causing bleeding. Another employee tried to lock the store to prevent more youths from entering, but the group overpowered him, forcing the door open.
Once inside, the juveniles ransacked the premises, pulling items from refrigerators, tossing food and drinks outside, and damaging products beyond repair. MPD classified the incident as felony destruction of property, second-degree theft, and simple assault.
Owners Speak Out on Crime in the Community
Store owners Sajib Uddula and Tumika Alston, who have operated the 24/7 shop for only a few months, expressed frustration over the attack.
“I don’t think crime is down. Crime is up,” Uddula said. “Most of them kids were less than 15 years old — like 10, 12. That’s crazy.”
Alston questioned official claims of declining crime rates in D.C., saying, “Who told that lie?” She added that the incident highlights why other neighborhood stores, including Dollar Tree, CVS, and 7-Eleven, have closed their doors.
“I’m telling Trump, yeah, send the boys to Benning Road, because this is crazy,” Alston said. “We’re trying to put a store in your community, and then you do this.”
Crime Numbers vs. Community Reality
The attack comes amid debate over crime trends in D.C. President Donald Trump has announced plans to address what he calls a “crime emergency” in the city, including increased federal law enforcement presence. Some city leaders argue that recent statistics show a decline in crime, but residents and business owners around Hechinger Mall told 7News they still feel unsafe.
While opinions vary on Trump’s plan, the consensus among those interviewed was that the city faces a serious public safety challenge — one not fully reflected in official numbers.
Owners Determined to Stay Open
Despite the destruction, Alston vowed that Best Tobacco & Wireless will remain open. “We’re not leaving,” she said. “We just started, and we’re going to keep going.”
The MPD continues to investigate and has not announced any arrests. The juveniles involved could face multiple charges as authorities review surveillance footage and witness statements.
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