Attorneys Will Not Test DNA Evidence Ahead of Trial for Deadly Mass Shooting

By Jakob Rios [former] - April 22, 2022
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

Prosecuting and defense attorneys in the case of a deadly mass shooting do not plan to test DNA evidence ahead of the two co-defendants’ upcoming trial.

The mass shooting took place on the morning of Jan. 25, 2021, outside the New 7 Market on the 1400 block of Good Hope Road, SE. The shooting took the life of 22-year-old Edward Wade and injured several others.

Aaron Adgerson, 18, and Terrance Oxner, 23, are charged with first-degree murder while armed in connection with Wade’s death. The two recently rejected a plea offer and are scheduled to go on trial in November.

During the defendants’ most recent hearing on April 22, both parties relayed that they will not be testing any DNA evidence. They also discussed a motion for Adgerson’s release from the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services.

The prosecutor opposed the motion, arguing that they do not believe the defendant was a shooter but he was still involved in a serious and premeditated crime. She also argued he’s a flight risk.

Adgerson previously escaped the Psychiatric Institute of Washington after his arrest. His attorney, Michael Madden, said the defendant was not fully detoxed at the time and left through an already open gate. Madden pointed out that his client has since had no issues at the DYRS. He is enrolled in a program to get his GED and took part in a socialization program but did not complete it.  He could stay with a family member in the event of his release from custody.

DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun said there are “not enough new circumstances” for him to consider release.

Both defendants will remain in custody as they await their next hearing, which is scheduled for June 26.