ALEXANDRIA, Va. — A 15-year-old boy from Alexandria has been charged with robbery using a firearm after allegedly assaulting and robbing a man aboard a Metro train earlier this summer.
The incident occurred on Monday, August 4, just after 7 p.m., as the train traveled between the Van Dorn Street Metro station and the King Street–Old Town station. According to a search warrant affidavit, the teen approached the victim from behind, placed him in a chokehold, struck him in the face, and pressed a handgun against him while demanding, “Give me everything.”
The victim reported to Metro Transit Police that the suspect stole $300 in cash, an Apple Watch, and a Louis Vuitton backpack before fleeing once the train arrived at King Street Station. The victim sustained bruising to his face but declined hospital treatment.
Details from Surveillance
Metro Transit Police said the teen boarded the train at 7:08 p.m. through a separate door. The affidavit describes how the suspect glanced at the victim before pulling a hood over his head, wearing a surgical mask, and launching the attack.
Witnesses and video surveillance suggest the suspect used his weight to overpower the victim during the struggle. Though the view was partially blocked by train seats, it appeared the suspect had his arm around the victim’s neck and maintained control before demanding valuables.
At approximately 7:09 p.m., the victim managed to break free of the chokehold, but the suspect remained close, taking possession of the victim’s bag. Both exited the train at King Street Station four minutes later.
Identified Through Video and Family
Investigators tracked the suspect using Metro surveillance footage. Cameras later captured him boarding a Metro bus and exiting at N. Armistead Street.
Police then interviewed a woman, later identified as the boy’s grandmother, who confirmed his identity. Officers subsequently determined that the teen resides in an apartment in the 2300 block of Eisenhower Avenue.
Charges Filed
Based on the evidence and witness accounts, a detention order was issued. The 15-year-old has been formally charged with robbery using a firearm. Because of his age, authorities have not released his name.
Community Impact
The robbery adds to growing concerns about crime on the Metro system. Riders in the region have expressed unease over reports of assaults and thefts in recent months, even as police continue efforts to bolster visibility on trains and in stations.
While this case remains under investigation, Metro Transit Police have urged riders to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity immediately.
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