John Watts dies after Monday afternoon shooting in Southeast DC
WASHINGTON, DC – A Monday afternoon burst of gunfire on Benning Road left 37-year-old John Watts dead, launching a homicide investigation in Southeast DC and putting a reward of up to $25,000 on information that helps police secure an arrest and conviction.
Metropolitan Police Department officers responded at approximately 2:30 p.m. Monday to the 5000 block of Benning Road SE following a report of a shooting.
Officers find man suffering from gunshot wounds
Sixth District officers arrived and found an adult man suffering from gunshot wounds.
DC Fire and EMS transported the victim to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Police identified the victim Tuesday as Watts, a resident of Southeast DC.
Homicide investigation underway
MPD has not released information about what investigators believe led to the shooting.
No arrest or suspect description was announced in Tuesday’s update.
Police also did not disclose whether investigators are searching for a specific vehicle or how many people may have been involved.
$25K reward offered for information
MPD is asking anyone with information about Watts’ killing not to take action themselves.
Tips can be provided to police by calling 202-727-9099 or texting 50411.
The department is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for a homicide in the District.
Key Points
- John Watts, 37, of Southeast DC, was fatally shot Monday afternoon in the 5000 block of Benning Road SE.
- Watts was transported to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
- No arrest or suspect description was announced, and MPD offers up to $25,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction in a DC homicide.
