Washington — D.C. police are investigating the homicide of a 43-year-old man in Northeast that authorities say is the city’s fifth killing in seven days.
Late-night shooting on Saratoga Avenue NE
Officers from the Metropolitan Police Department’s 5th District responded about 11:10 p.m. Thursday to the 1400 block of Saratoga Avenue NE after receiving a report of a shooting. They found an unconscious man suffering from gunshot wounds. D.C. Fire and EMS personnel arrived but were unable to revive him; he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The victim has been identified by police as Darrius Coghill, 43, of Northeast Washington. Investigators say a male suspect was seen leaving the area wearing a white tank top and driving a white Land Rover. Detectives are asking the public for tips to help locate the suspect.
- When: Around 11:10 p.m., Thursday.
- Where: 1400 block of Saratoga Avenue NE, Northeast Washington.
- Victim: Darrius Coghill, 43.
- Suspect description: Male, wearing a white tank top; last seen driving a white Land Rover.
- How to report tips: Call (202) 727-9099 or text tips to 50411.
Citywide context
Police reported 56 homicides citywide so far this year, a figure the department said represents a 38% decrease compared with the same point last year. The recent fatalities include the fatal shooting of a 13-year-old, Ahmad Mims, earlier this week in Northeast, incidents that have heightened concern among residents and community leaders.
| Measure | Value |
|---|---|
| Homicides year-to-date | 56 |
| Change vs. same time last year | −38% |
Residents in the area said they were shaken by the late-night violence. Community members and neighborhood groups have increasingly called for more visible patrols and resources for violence prevention. Police officials have said they are following leads and reviewing surveillance footage from the area.
Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the Metropolitan Police Department at (202) 727-9099 or text tips to 50411. Tips can be provided anonymously through Crime Solvers of Washington, D.C.
Local leaders and residents frequently note that while year-to-date homicide totals can provide useful context, each loss of life has immediate consequences for families and neighborhoods. Neighbors gathered near the scene on Friday said they hope the investigation will produce answers quickly so the community can begin to heal.
