The Metropolitan Police Department has announced the arrest of 27-year-old Tyrell Lamonte Bailey following an incident involving the unlawful possession of a firearm in the city's Northeast quadrant. The arrest took place after a series of events that unfolded on August 28, 2024, when officers from the Robbery Suppression Unit spotted a man exiting what appeared to be a suspicious vehicle on the 4500 block of Quarles Street, Northeast.

As reported by the MPD, the suspect fled on foot towards I-295 southbound and disposed of a firearm in a storm drain before escaping the scene on the back of a motorcycle. The motorcycle operator has since been identified. Tragically, during the attempt to retrieve the gun from the storm drain, it discharged, fatally wounding a police officer.

The late officer, identified as Investigator Wayne David, was immediately given care by his colleagues before being transported by the department's helicopter to an area hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The MPD is preparing to honor Investigator David with funeral services in the coming week as the department mourns his loss.

After surrendering at the Seventh District last night, Bailey was arrested without incident. Chief Pamela A. Smith expressed gratitude for community support in a statement from the MPD: "I want to thank the members of the Metropolitan Police Department and express my appreciation for the community for their tips and information that led to identifying and the arrest of this individual." She also highlighted the department's focus on "honoring the memory and legacy of Investigator Wayne David and giving him an exceptional send off during his funeral services next week."

The MPD extended its thanks not only to the community but also to various agencies, including the FBI Washington Field Office, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Washington Field Division, and the United States Marshals Service for their assistance throughout the investigation.