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By
D.C. Witness Staff
- October 15, 2018
Court
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Daily Stories
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Homicides
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Suspects
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During an arraignment Oct. 10, a DC Magistrate judge found substantial probability for the fatal shooting of a man in September.
Terrell Anthony Stephenson is charged with premeditated first-degree murder while armed for shooting 28-year-old Ervin Eugene Watkins on the 1400 Block of Howard Road, SE.
Judge Joseph Beshouri said the defendant shot at Watkins eight times, which showed “the intent to kill.”
Stephenson’s defense attorney, John Fowler, argued against the substantial probability finding, saying that the shooter’s identity was unclear. He also said there was evidence of self-defense and “adequate provocation.” In addition, Fowler said Stephenson should be treated differently because he turned himself in.
According to court documents, minutes prior to the shooting, Stephenson, 28, had an argument with a friend of the decedent. Subsequently, Watkins intervened and confronted Stephenson. Following the confrontation, a witness said Stephenson pulled out a gun from his car and began shooting at the decedent.
Judge Beshouri ordered Stephenson held without bond and said the defendant poses a risk to the community.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled on Oct. 24.