On Wednesday, a tragic incident occurred in Washington, D.C. when a police officer was killed after a gun he was trying to recover from a storm drain accidentally fired. Surveillance images have been released by the police of a suspect who threw the gun into the storm drain before fleeing the scene. The incident took place in the 4500 block of Quarles Street as officers were canvassing the area and saw a suspicious individual exiting a vehicle. The suspect ran towards southbound Interstate 295 and threw the firearm into a storm drain before escaping on a motorcycle.
Officer Wayne David was attempting to retrieve the gun when it went off accidentally, causing his death. Area leaders, including D.C. Chief of Police Pamela Smith and Mayor Bowser, expressed their condolences and praised Officer David for his dedication during his more than 25 years of service. A full investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the accidental shooting, as it is unclear how the gun discharged. The serial number on the weapon was scratched off, and the ATF is currently investigating.
Officer David was known for his work in removing illegal guns from D.C. streets as part of the gun recovery unit and violent crime suppression unit. A $50,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the suspect who discarded the gun. Chief Smith is urging the suspect to turn himself in, and while it is too soon to determine charges, the police are actively investigating the incident.
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