A 17-year-old was arrested Tuesday and charged as an adult after what was supposed to be a routine online sale ended in a robbery and double shooting that wounded a man and a child near E.L. Haynes Public Charter School in Northwest D.C. Police say the victims had arranged to meet potential buyers when one of them pulled a gun. Authorities identified the suspect as 17-year-old Damien Mowrer, who now faces adult criminal charges.
What investigators say
According to the Metropolitan Police Department, the victims set up a meeting with a buyer Tuesday in the 4400 block of 7th Street NW to sell an item they had advertised online. Investigators say one of the buyers, identified as 17-year-old Damien Mowrer, tried to take property from one of the sellers, and a struggle followed. During that struggle, the buyer allegedly drew a gun and shot both victims before running off.
Officers later found the wounded man and child on the 4500 block of Kansas Avenue NW, near E.L. Haynes, at about 11:56 a.m. DC Fire and EMS took both victims to a nearby hospital for treatment, as reported by WJLA.
Charges and police appeal
Detectives say they identified and arrested Mowrer, who is charged as an adult with assault with a dangerous weapon and robbery. The shooting remains under investigation, and police say additional suspects may still be sought.
Anyone with information is asked to call MPD's anonymous tip line at (202) 727-9099 or text tips to 50411. The city's Crime Solvers program offers rewards for information, according to the Metropolitan Police Department.
School response and community safety
E.L. Haynes staff told investigators that neither victim was affiliated with the school. Staff members provided first aid and secured the campus, and school officials said no summer classes were in session and there was no ongoing threat to students. The Metropolitan Police Department is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to an arrest and conviction in the case, per reporting by WJLA.
How to stay safe when selling online
Police continue to urge residents who buy and sell items online to use MPD's Safe Exchange Zones, which are often located at police stations, and to avoid meeting strangers alone or at night. The department posts station exchange locations and safety guidance for online purchases. For details, see the Metropolitan Police Department.
