A deadly domestic violence incident unfolded across Northwest DC when a woman was gunned down and the suspected shooter was later killed in a confrontation with police aboard a Metrobus
Washington, DC — A woman was shot and killed Tuesday morning in Northwest DC before the suspected gunman boarded a Metrobus and was fatally shot by police during an armed confrontation, according to the Metropolitan Police Department.
The violence began at approximately 7:11 a.m. in the 3500 block of Wisconsin Avenue NW.
When officers arrived, they found an adult woman unconscious and not breathing with a gunshot wound.
DC Fire and EMS responded to the scene, but the victim was pronounced dead after lifesaving efforts were unsuccessful.
Police identified the victim as 44-year-old Melissa Wallace-Pulliam of Northwest DC.
Investigators learned the suspected shooter had boarded a WMATA Metrobus after the shooting.
Officers located and stopped the bus near the intersection of Wisconsin Avenue and Upton Street NW.
According to MPD, officers encountered the suspect aboard the bus, where he allegedly brandished a handgun.
Police said the officers then discharged their service weapons, striking the suspect.
DC Fire and EMS responded, but the suspect was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities identified the suspect as 44-year-old Shawn Dewayne Williams of Southeast DC.
Police recovered a firearm at the scene.
Investigators said preliminary findings indicate the incident was domestic-related.
The officers involved have been placed on administrative leave in accordance with department policy.
The Metropolitan Police Department’s Internal Affairs Bureau Force Investigations Team is leading the investigation into the officer-involved shooting.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office will conduct an independent review of the facts and evidence.
The homicide investigation remains ongoing.
Key Points
- A 44-year-old woman was fatally shot on Wisconsin Avenue in Northwest DC.
- Police say the suspected gunman boarded a Metrobus and was later fatally shot by officers after allegedly brandishing a handgun.
- Investigators believe the incident was domestic-related.
