WASHINGTON, D.C. — A teenager has been arrested in connection with a Southeast D.C. shooting last month that left another juvenile injured. Police say the suspect, a 16-year-old boy, was taken into custody this week following an investigation that linked him to the violent incident.
Shooting on a Busy Southeast Corridor
The shooting occurred in broad daylight around 4 p.m. on Monday, August 18, in the 2700 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, Southeast — a busy corridor lined with businesses and frequented by pedestrians. Seventh District officers responded after receiving multiple reports of gunfire.
When officers arrived at the scene, they found several shell casings scattered across the roadway but did not locate an immediate victim. Witnesses reported the sound of multiple shots ringing out, sending people scrambling for cover in the area.
Victim Later Arrives at Hospital
Not long after the incident, authorities were notified that a juvenile male had arrived at a local hospital with gunshot wounds. Police confirmed the victim was conscious and breathing when he checked in for treatment. While officials have not disclosed the full extent of his injuries, the victim is expected to survive.
Investigators have not released information on whether the shooting was targeted or random, leaving questions about the motive and circumstances surrounding the violent encounter.
Teen Suspect Arrested and Charged
Following weeks of investigation, detectives identified a 16-year-old male from Southeast D.C. as the suspect. On Tuesday, the teenager was arrested and formally charged with Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (Gun).
Because of his age, authorities have not released the suspect’s name. Police have also not indicated whether the suspect and the victim were known to one another prior to the shooting.
Community Concerns Over Youth Violence
The arrest once again highlights ongoing concerns about youth involvement in gun violence across Washington, D.C. According to city data, incidents involving minors as both victims and suspects have been on the rise, fueling community debates over prevention, accountability, and the availability of firearms to young people.
Community leaders in Southeast have repeatedly called for stronger outreach programs and more resources aimed at keeping teens away from guns and violence. The latest shooting underscores the challenges police and residents face in curbing gun crime along corridors like Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, which has seen repeated incidents over the past few years.
Police Investigation Continues
While an arrest has been made, police stress that the case remains active. Investigators are still seeking additional information about the circumstances of the shooting, including any possible accomplices or factors that may have led to the confrontation.
The Metropolitan Police Department is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for tips leading to an arrest and conviction connected to the case. Residents are encouraged to call MPD’s tip line at 202-727-9099 or send anonymous information via text message to 50411.
Key Details at a Glance
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Suspect: 16-year-old male from Southeast D.C., charged with Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (Gun).
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Incident: August 18 shooting in the 2700 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE.
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Victim: Juvenile male, self-transported to hospital; conscious and breathing.
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Evidence: Shell casings recovered at the scene.
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Status: Case remains under investigation; reward of up to $10,000 for information.
Looking Ahead
As the investigation moves forward, police and community leaders are urging residents to come forward with any information that could help bring closure to the case. The incident serves as another stark reminder of the impact of gun violence on young lives and the neighborhoods they call home.
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