In a recent announcement, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro confirmed that Travis Thomas, 17, of Washington, D.C., has pleaded guilty to charges including assault with intent to kill while armed and two counts of armed carjacking. This admission of guilt is associated with a shocking incident where multiple rounds were fired at an elementary school playground, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. Thomas, who faced his charges as an adult, is set to be sentenced on November 14, 2025, by Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz.
The case traces back to April 20, 2025, when Thomas engaged in an online altercation which led him to then travel to C.W. Harris Elementary School and open fire on the playground. In an alarming act of violence, over 15 rounds were discharged, resulting in one child sustaining a life-threatening injury—a bullet to the forehead requiring surgical removal. Additionally, Thomas was linked to two separate carjacking incidents from late 2024, one at a Safeway parking garage and another on Massachusetts Avenue SE. He is currently in custody, having been arrested five days post the playground shooting.
Much appreciation was extended to the Metropolitan Police Department, which played a crucial role in apprehending the suspect and ascertaining the facts of the case. Chief Pamela Smith of the police department joined U.S. Attorney Pirro in making the announcement. The effective collaboration between law enforcement and the U.S. Attorney's Office underscores the gravity with which this case has been handled given the serious nature of the offenses committed.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Green, who is prosecuting the case, was also recognized for his effort. The comprehensive investigation that followed the incidents was instrumental in linking Thomas to these violent acts. This cooperation among various arms of the justice system aims to ensure to swiftly bring those responsible for endangering the community, especially its youngest members, to account.
