Handcuffs, crime incident
Handcuffs, crime incident

Teen charged after online sale turns into robbery and shooting in Northwest DC

Police say two victims were shot during attempted marketplace robbery

NORTHWEST DC — What began as an arranged online sale ended in gunfire when two people were shot during an alleged robbery in Northwest DC, leading detectives to quickly identify and arrest a 17-year-old suspect, according to the Metropolitan Police Department.

The shooting occurred at approximately 11:56 a.m. on Tuesday, July 21.

Officers responded to the 4500 block of Kansas Avenue Northwest after receiving reports of a shooting.

When officers arrived, they found an adult man and a juvenile boy suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. DC Fire and EMS transported both victims to a local hospital for treatment.

According to investigators, the victims had arranged to meet suspects in the 4400 block of 7th Street Northwest to sell an item that had been advertised online.

During the meeting, police said one of the suspects attempted to steal the property. A struggle followed, during which the suspect allegedly displayed a firearm and shot both victims.

Investigators said the suspect fled with the property while the injured victims ran to the 4500 block of Kansas Avenue Northwest, where they were later found by responding officers.

Fourth District detectives developed investigative leads and identified one of the suspects.

Police arrested 17-year-old Damien Mowrer of Northwest DC and charged him as an adult under Title 16 with assault with a dangerous weapon (gun) and robbery.

The investigation remains ongoing as detectives work to identify any additional suspects.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 202-727-9099 or text tips to 50411. The Metropolitan Police Department is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.

The charges are allegations, and Mowrer is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.


Key Points

  • A 17-year-old was arrested after two people were shot during an alleged robbery tied to an online sale.
  • Police said the suspect fled with the property after shooting both victims.
  • Detectives continue searching for additional suspects and are offering a reward of up to $10,000.
Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News