Suspect Claims Sex worker Threatened Him With a Gun, Shooting Followed

By Ivanna Ceballos - September 10, 2024
Daily Stories | Shooting | Suspects |

Parties delivered opening statements for a shooting trial on Sept. 9 before DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur.

Jerry Tyree, 46, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict, unlawful possession of liquid PCP, and unlawful possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, for his alleged involvement in a shooting that took place on Nov. 29, 2023, on the 5900 block of Foote Street, NE.

During their opening statements, prosecutors claimed the shooting stemmed from Tyree’s soliciting sex from the victim. When things went awry after they smoked a cigarette laced with PCP and Tyree allegedly removed a condom the victim requested he wear, the prosecutor argued Tyree accused the victim of stealing his money before firing a shot.

The prosecutor claimed nearby surveillance footage depicted the incident but did not showthe shooter’s face. He argued a male figure is seen exiting the building and fleeing the scene.

However, Sara Kopecki, Tyree’s attorney, argued the shooting occurred during a struggle between the victim and Tyree due to the sex worker’s requesting additional money halfway through the act and brandishing a handgun to threaten Tyree.

According to Kopecki, the gun was fired during the struggle, injuring the individual. She claimed that Tyree panicked, grabbed the gun and fled the scene.

Prosecutors called a witness, who testified she was in the building when she overheard an argument and threatening comments from a male’s voice. As she approached her door, the witness testified she heard a gunshot.

The witness added she called 911 and ran to her kitchen window, where she saw a figure leaving the building. She located the victim in the hallway.

The trial will continue Sept. 10.