WASHINGTON, D.C. – A 17-year-old boy has been arrested and charged in connection with a violent carjacking and kidnapping that took place in Southeast Washington earlier this year, police announced Thursday.
Carjacking Reported in May
The case dates back to May 4, 2025, when detectives with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) began investigating after a teenage victim reported being attacked during a planned meeting to sell a watch.
According to police, the victim and the suspect initially arranged to meet in the 3500 block of 6th Street, SE, shortly before 3 p.m. A dispute over the price of the watch escalated when additional suspects arrived.
Investigators say the group assaulted the victim, forced him into his own vehicle at gunpoint, and drove to a location in Maryland. Once there, the suspects allegedly stole the victim’s watch and cash before abandoning him and fleeing the scene in his car.
Arrest of Teenage Suspect
On September 11, 2025, Sixth District officers spotted one of the suspects during routine patrol. Police identified him as a 17-year-old from Southeast D.C. He was taken into custody without incident.
The teen now faces multiple charges, including:
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Armed Carjacking
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Kidnapping
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First-Degree Theft
Authorities say the suspect has been processed and remanded under a D.C. Superior Court custody order. He is currently awaiting further court proceedings in the Family Law Division of Superior Court.
Investigation Still Ongoing
Police Chief Pamela A. Smith confirmed the investigation remains active, with detectives continuing their search for additional suspects linked to the case.
“This was a frightening and dangerous attack on a young victim,” Chief Smith said. “We are committed to holding everyone involved accountable and ensuring justice is served.”
Investigators have not released details on how many suspects remain at large but said they are following several leads.
Appeal for Information
Authorities are urging anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward. Information can be shared with the Metropolitan Police Department by calling (202) 727-9099 or by sending an anonymous text to 50411.
Police emphasized that all tips will remain confidential.
Community Reaction
The arrest has drawn attention in Southeast D.C., where residents have expressed growing concerns about youth involvement in violent crime. Some community members welcomed the swift action by MPD but said more must be done to address the root causes of crime among teens.
“It’s scary to think kids are out here committing carjackings with guns,” said a resident of the area who asked not to be identified. “I hope the police get the rest of them, but I also hope these kids get the help they need.”
Looking Ahead
The 17-year-old’s court hearings are expected to move forward in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, police continue their work to identify and apprehend the remaining suspects.
For now, investigators say their focus remains on justice for the victim and on preventing similar incidents from happening in the community.
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