Dc man indicted after knife attack on police outside nw cvs, officials say

“Officer suffered 50-stitch injury as suspect faces nine felony counts.”

Washington, DC – A Washington, D.C. man has been indicted on multiple felony charges after prosecutors say he stabbed and assaulted several Metropolitan Police officers following a reported theft at a Northwest CVS last summer.

Ian Zephyrin, 46, was indicted this week on nine counts stemming from the June 24, 2025 incident, including assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault while armed, and three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.

Authorities say the incident began inside a CVS store on 8th Street NW before escalating into a violent confrontation with officers on nearby streets.

Key Points

DC man indicted on nine charges including assault with intent to kill while armed
Officer suffered head injury requiring more than 50 stitches
Incident began with alleged theft at CVS and escalated during police encounter

Alleged shoplifting incident led to confrontation

According to prosecutors, Zephyrin entered a CVS at 2009 8th Street NW and placed merchandise into a reusable bag before leaving without paying.

Officials say he also attempted to take a store manager’s cellphone before exiting the store. The manager then contacted police to report the incident.

“Zephyrin took the bag, walked past all points of sale with the unpaid merchandise and left the store,” prosecutors said.

Knife attack injured officer during arrest attempt

Police located the suspect shortly after near the 600 block of Florida Avenue NW and attempted to make contact, but he fled, leading officers on a brief foot chase.

During the attempted arrest, prosecutors allege Zephyrin pulled out a knife and began attacking officers.

“As officers attempted to detain the defendant, Zephyrin… pulled out a knife from his person and stabbed at one of the officers,” according to the statement.

The officer was struck in the elbow and forehead, suffering a large laceration that required more than 50 stitches.

Authorities say Zephyrin then threatened another officer with the knife and threw it at a third officer before being taken into custody.

Case moves forward in DC Superior Court

Zephyrin remains in custody pending trial. A felony status conference is scheduled for May 13.

“Law enforcement officers put themselves on the line every day to keep our communities safe,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. “We stand firmly behind the blue and will not hesitate to act when those sworn to protect our communities are targeted.”

The case is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Courtney Scholz.

DC police stabbing, Ian Zephyrin indictment, Washington DC crime news, MPD officer attack, CVS theft incident

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