Mount Pleasant assault sparks manhunt as police release surveillance
WASHINGTON, DC — A quiet Sunday night on Mount Pleasant Street turned violent when a man was pistol-whipped and threatened with a gun during a shocking assault just steps from neighborhood businesses and restaurants.
The incident unfolded around 8:40 p.m. on the 3000 block of Mount Pleasant Street NW, where the suspect approached the victim, struck him in the face with a handgun, pointed the weapon at his chest, then fled without further confrontation. The victim was found at the scene by officers and received immediate aid as detectives began their investigation.
Surveillance video and clear images from nearby cameras captured the suspect just moments before and after the encounter, prompting the Metropolitan Police Department to release the footage publicly in hopes of identifying the individual.
Investigators say the man seen in the footage is wanted in connection with the aggravated assault. The MPD is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
The footage, which was released Tuesday, shows the suspect walking through the corridor in a light-colored outfit. Officials are asking anyone who may recognize the person to come forward but stress not to approach him.
The motive behind the assault remains unclear, and no arrest has been made as of Thursday. Detectives continue to canvass the area and review additional surveillance from surrounding buildings.
Anyone with information is urged to call (202) 727-9099 or send an anonymous tip via text to 50411.
Police have not stated whether the victim and the suspect knew each other or if the attack was random.
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Key Points
- Man assaulted and threatened with a handgun Sunday night on the 3000 block of Mount Pleasant Street NW
- Police released surveillance images and video of the suspect as they investigate
- $10,000 reward offered for information leading to an arrest