At approximately 2:00 this morning a prisoner housed at the D.C. Jail complained of seizures, so he was transported to D.C. General Hospital for treatment. At about 7:20 am the prisoner, identified as 41-year-old James Nero, requested permission to use the bathroom located in area 10 of the hospital. Nero reportedly emerged from the bathroom and overpowered a correctional officer before taking his gun. Nero then shot the chain of his leg shackles and fired a shot in the hospital before fleeing the scene.
A Fifth District Officer, who was transporting a prisoner of her own, was alerted of the escape. She then secured her prisoner and pursued Nero out of the hospital, returning fire after being fired upon. The Fifth District Officer assisted by a correctional officer radioed for assistance and continued their pursuit.
Responding Fifth District Officers pursued Nero to a maintenance shed located on the hospital grounds, where they exchanged gunfire. Nero was struck in the left leg and shoulder. No officers were injured in this incident. James Nero was returned to the hospital for treatment and charged with Assault with the Intent to Kill.
The name of the Correctional Officer is being withheld because he is a witness in this case. The department is withholding the names of the involved officers to allow them the opportunity to meet with their families.
Chief of Police Charles H. Ramsey took this time to commend the involved officers for their heroic actions. He noted, "I’m very proud of the men and women of the department. Every day they risk their safety for the welfare of others. Today’s incident is another example of that fact."