On Sunday, February 26, 2006, at about 2:54 am, Metropolitan Police and DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services personnel were summoned to the front of 1208 U Street, NW, to investigate the report of a shooting. Upon arrival, they located a male and a female suffering from gunshot wounds.
The male, identified as 33-year-old Damon Ward, of the 1200 block of South Eads Street in Arlington, Virginia, was transported to the Howard University Hospital suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest; he was pronounced dead at 7:11 am. The 21-year-old female was treated at an area hospital for a minor gunshot wound to her left leg and was released. Her identity is being withheld because she is a witness in the case.
The preliminary investigation reveals that the shooting apparently stemmed from an altercation over a parking space between individuals not associated with the victims. At least four men evidently argued with several other men, and then entered a motor vehicle. Subsequently, at least one of these men opened fire. Immediately after the shooting, the suspects fled the scene in a vehicle described only as a dark colored truck. The suspects are described only as black males.
The case is currently under investigation by detectives assigned to the MPDC's Violent Crimes Branch. Anyone who has information regarding this case is asked to call (202) 727-9099.
The Metropolitan Police Department is currently offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for any homicide committed in the District of Columbia.
Update, 2/28/2006:
-
Chief of Police Charles H. Ramsey has announced an increase in the reward in this case. Anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible the murder of Damon Ward will now be eligible for a reward of up to $50,000. Individuals with information are urged to call the MPDC at (202) 727-9099.