WASHINGTON, D.C. — A group of juveniles who escaped from a Pennsylvania facility led police on a violent and chaotic spree Sunday night in Northeast D.C., culminating in an armed robbery, a shooting, and a two-part pursuit involving MPD’s helicopter unit.
The incident began when the Metropolitan Police Department received word that three committed youths under the supervision of the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) had absconded from a contracted placement facility in Pennsylvania. The teens reportedly stole a red 2016 Land Rover SUV with Pennsylvania plates and were believed to have returned to D.C.
Shortly before 11:00 p.m. on May 18, officers responded to the 700 block of 8th Street NE for a reported shooting and robbery. An adult male victim, suffering from a non-life-threatening gunshot wound, told police he had been robbed by suspects in a red SUV. The Real Time Crime Center and Flock camera data confirmed the vehicle involved matched the stolen Land Rover.
Minutes later, a First District officer spotted the SUV on H Street NE. MPD’s helicopter, Falcon 1, was deployed and tracked the suspects as five individuals bailed from the vehicle. Two re-entered and fled the scene. One suspect was arrested on foot, and an AR-15-style rifle was recovered nearby.
Helicopter tracks fleeing suspects to Southeast DC
At 11:15 p.m., the SUV was seen again traveling along Alabama Avenue SE. A pursuit was authorized, and Falcon 1 re-engaged in aerial surveillance. The vehicle eventually stopped near Minnesota Avenue and T Street SE, where more suspects exited and ran. Two additional suspects were apprehended.
In total, three juveniles were arrested and charged with Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (Gun), Robbery, and other firearm-related offenses. One of those arrested was confirmed to be a DYRS absconder. MPD continues to search for the two remaining juveniles.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police at (202) 727-9099 or text tips to 50411.
