Two Men Shot Outside Gun Violence Prevention Event

Two young men were injured in a double shooting in Washington, D.C., outside a gun violence prevention event at a local church.

The double shooting took place outside of Peace Baptist Church on 18th Street Northeast, just two miles from Capitol Hill, police told Fox 5 DC. 

The pastor of Peace Baptist was reportedly hosting a program to educate students on how to be gun violence prevention leaders when the shots rang out. The pastor said the two injured men were not affiliated with the church, and police have not released their identities or confirmed whether they took part in the summer jobs program near the church. Both men are expected to recover. Both men are expected to recover.

Washington, D.C., City Council member Wendell Felder stated on social media that he is working with the Metropolitan Police Department to apprehend the criminals and notify the community of the situation.

“I am deeply troubled by yesterday’s shooting near Peace Baptist Church. My prayers are with the two individuals who were injured, their loved ones, and everyone in our community who was impacted by this act of violence.” Felder posted on X. “It is particularly heartbreaking that this incident took place directly next to a youth gun violence prevention program. No one should have to fear for their safety while working to better themselves or attending community events.”

Police arrived on the scene shortly after the shots were fired and prevented the participants of the nearby summer youth employment program, most of whom were in their teens, from leaving the church for nearly two and a half hours, parents told NBC Washington. 

During those two and a half hours, officers reportedly went door-to-door asking for surveillance footage and tips about the potential suspects.

While searching the scene, police found a 16-year-old in the group carrying two backpacks that held two firearms. He was arrested and charged with carrying a pistol without a license, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, and possession of a large-capacity feeding device. Police have not said whether the teen was connected to the shooting, which remains under investigation.

Electrician Jamil Davis was working outside a block away when he heard gunshots.

“We heard the shots. The first was four, and probably about two seconds later, we heard a few more,” Davis told WUSA 9. “I don’t understand the logic behind why this even happened. You got kids around there.”

“I just wanted to make sure there were no kids [harmed], because I had to deal with this a couple years ago, and the last thing I want to hear is somebody else losing a kid,” Davis added.