Suspect charged after officer-involved shooting following vehicular assault in Northeast DC
WASHINGTON, DC — A 28-year-old man remains hospitalized with serious injuries after allegedly using his vehicle to threaten officers and civilians outside a Northeast nightclub early Sunday, prompting a police shooting that is now under review by multiple agencies.
Metropolitan Police say the incident began around 1:30 a.m. on January 18 when Fifth District officers responded to a report of threats made by a man who had been denied entry to a nightclub in the 1800 block of New York Avenue, Northeast. The man allegedly became aggressive over an entrance fee, threatened club security, and referenced returning with a firearm before driving away.
While officers were still on scene gathering statements, the suspect returned in a vehicle and approached the entrance, driving in the direction of security personnel and officers. Police say they issued multiple loud commands for the driver to exit, but he fled in reverse. Officers then canvassed the area for the suspect.
Shortly after, the same vehicle returned to the block. Police again attempted to engage the suspect, issuing additional commands. The man allegedly drove toward the entrance, where pedestrians were present, then abruptly reversed in the direction of an officer. At that moment, another officer positioned at the side of the vehicle discharged their firearm several times.
The suspect fled the scene at a high speed and crashed in the 3400 block of New York Avenue, Northeast. He was found conscious and breathing with multiple gunshot wounds and transported by DC Fire and EMS to an area hospital.
The suspect has been identified as Christopher Cherry, 28, of no fixed address. He faces several charges including Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (Vehicle), Threat to Kidnap or Injure a Person, Felony Assault on a Police Officer, Reckless Driving, and Leaving After Colliding.
The officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave in accordance with MPD policy. The Force Investigations Team from the department’s Internal Affairs Bureau is leading the review of the shooting, and the United States Attorney’s Office will independently evaluate the evidence.
MPD has not reported any other injuries from the incident.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police at 202-727-9099 or text 50411.
Key Points
• Christopher Cherry, 28, was shot by police after allegedly using his vehicle to threaten officers and civilians outside a DC nightclub
• Cherry faces multiple charges, including Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Felony Assault on a Police Officer
• The officer-involved shooting is under review by MPD’s Force Investigations Team and the U.S. Attorney’s Office
