Defense Requests Evidence Connecting Decedent to Gang Activity

By D.C. Witness Staff - October 30, 2018
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects |

During a status hearing, defense counsel requested the prosecution turn over evidence from the Metropolitan Police Department that connects the decedent to gang activity.

Mario Alfaro is charged with first-degree murder while armed and related weapons offenses for allegedly shooting Jonathan Vilchez on the 5400 block of Georgia Avenue, NW in 2017.

The prosecution said Oct. 30 that a preliminary report, which includes the names of contacts and research related to the case and the decedent’s possible involvement in gang activity, was given to the defense.

The prosecution agreed to fulfill the defense’s request but said the inquiry into the evidence has not been made. 

According to court documents, surveillance footage shows Alfaro, 23, mouthing something to Vilchez, 22, while they were in a convenience store. Both men pulled out guns, and Vilchez shot Alfaro, first.  As Alfaro left the store, he fired multiple shots at the decedent before running away.

Police subsequently found a blood trail which led them to the murder weapon, which was located inside a dumpster. The trail also led them to Alfaro who was suffering from gunshot wounds, the documents said.

In 2017, during a preliminary hearing, a detective testified that the men appeared to be in the same street gang. He noted that there had been no conflicts between the two prior to the incident.

A status hearing is scheduled on Nov. 9.

Continue following D.C. Witness for updates regarding the case.