An officer-involved shooting in the Deanwood neighborhood is currently under investigation, the Metropolitan Police Department’s Internal Affairs Bureau and Investigative Services Bureau announced after a patrol turned tragic Monday night. According to the Metropolitan Police Department, the incident occurred on Monday, around 8:00 p.m. Metropolitan Police Department were responding to concerns of gunshot sounds echoed at a community meeting the prior day.
It was during a proactive patrol by Sixth District officers and the DC Safe and Beautiful Task Force that they confronted a suspect, 25-year-old David Warren Childs, who appeared to be armed with a firearm concealed in his waistband. The encounter ensued when officers approached and Childs fled, ignoring their commands to stop. The Metropolitan Police Department news release details how upon finally catching up to him, and after a physical altercation in the 1200 block of 47 Place, Northeast, Childs reportedly failed to show his hands and instead reached toward his waistband. The officer then discharged their service weapon, striking Childs, who succumbed to his injuries after lifesaving efforts proved unsuccessful.
Following the shooting, the involved officers were placed on administrative leave in line with Metropolitan Police Department policy. Per local regulations leading to the release of body-worn camera footage, the public can expect transparency in this event's investigation, which the Internal Affairs Bureau’s Force Investigations Team is handling. The fatalities assessment will be further reviewed by the United States Attorney’s Office to ensure an independent examination of the evidence.
The Metropolitan Police Department reiterated its commitment to thorough investigation and called for public assistance in gathering additional information. Anyone in possession of details relevant to this case is encouraged to contact the police at 202-727-9099 or send a text message to 50411. Through greater community engagement, authorities hope to piece together the precise circumstances that led to the fatal officer-involved shooting of David Warren Childs.
