Homicides Rise in DC From August to September

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According to D.C. Witness data, as of Oct. 2, there were 17 homicide incidents and 19 homicide victims in the District in September. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has announced one arrest made in relation to homicides that occurred during the month.

D.C. Witness found that there was a 55 percent increase in homicides compared to August, which had 11 homicide incidents.

There also was an increase in shooting victims, although not as significant. Compared to the 15 victims in August, there is a 27 percent increase.

According to the MPD, Bryant Nelson, 32, was arrested on Sept. 11, and charged with first-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the Sept. 2 homicide of Townsend Reginald Sowell, 46. The incident occurred on the 2800 block of 7th Street NE.

Of the reported cases, there was one officer-involved shooting that occurred on the 2500 block of Marion Barry Avenue, SE on Sept. 1. According to MPD documents, the incident occurred at the scene of a car accident after an injured individual allegedly pulled his gun on officers and ignored instructions to put the weapon down.

Officers shot the suspect, 26-year-old Justin Robinson, who died from his injuries.

Police have not made any arrests for the remaining 15 homicide incidents. The MPD is offering a reward for information on any unsolved cases.