Columbia heights robbery suspect busted after violent street attack
The metal handcuffs on black background. Handcuff or shackle. Police handcuffs.

Columbia Heights robbery suspect busted after violent street attack

A D.C. man is now behind bars after a brutal daylight robbery rocked Columbia Heights.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A 20-year-old man was taken into custody over the weekend in connection with a violent armed robbery that unfolded in broad daylight on a Columbia Heights street last month.


Key Points

  • Suspect arrested in March 26 armed robbery in Columbia Heights
  • Victims assaulted and robbed by multiple individuals on Hiatt Place
  • One victim struck with a handgun during the attack

The incident occurred around 4:42 p.m. on Wednesday, March 26, when several suspects approached multiple victims on the 3100 block of Hiatt Place NW. The attackers reportedly assaulted the victims, with one being struck by a handgun, before stealing personal belongings and fleeing.

Following an investigation by detectives, Orlin Lemus-Cruz of Northwest D.C. was arrested on Saturday. He has been charged with Robbery While Armed.

Investigation leads to weekend arrest

Authorities have not disclosed how many suspects were involved or whether additional arrests are expected. The case remains active, and police continue to seek tips from the public.

The department offers a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to arrests and convictions related to violent crimes in the District.

Victim assistance and tip lines remain open

Anyone with knowledge of the incident is urged to contact the police at (202) 727-9099 or send a text tip to 50411. Officials are urging witnesses or those with video footage to come forward.

Chris Quigley

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