What started as a routine crash call on Branch Avenue in Prince George’s County Friday night quickly turned into a homicide scene, after officers found a driver shot inside a wrecked car. The single-vehicle crash in the 4700 block of Branch Avenue left the man dead at the scene. Police have not publicly identified him and have not said whether anyone has been arrested, as detectives continue to work the case.
According to DC News Now, Prince George’s County police said officers were originally called for the crash and discovered the victim had been shot. The department is treating the case as an active homicide investigation handled by its detectives. Officials did not immediately share a possible motive or any suspect description, the outlet reported.
Police ask for tips
The Prince George’s County Police Department is asking anyone with information to contact Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS, which takes anonymous tips by phone, online and through the P3 Tips app. Per PG Crime Solvers, tips that lead to an arrest may be eligible for a reward. Witnesses to the crash or anyone with video are also asked to call the Homicide Unit at 301-516-2512, a contact number routinely listed in county press statements and local reporting, per FOX 5 DC.
Context in the county
The killing adds to a string of fatal shootings reported in Prince George’s County this year. Recent coverage has highlighted other deadly incidents in the area, including deadly midday gunfire on Marlboro Pike in February, underscoring a steady flow of violent cases investigators are trying to close.
Police say they plan to review surveillance footage, cellphone video and any witness tips as they piece together a timeline and work to identify whoever is responsible. Officials have said they will release more details as the investigation moves forward, and are urging anyone who knows something to speak up.
