Co-Defendants Charged in 60-Year-Old Man’s Death Waive Right To DNA Testing

By Maria Andrea Morales - April 23, 2024
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

Homicide co-defendants waived their right to independent DNA testing before DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe in an April 23 hearing.

Ky’lee Palmer, 23, and Aaron Adgerson, 19, are charged with first-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, for allegedly shooting 60-year-old Barron Goodwin on Feb. 12, 2020, on the 800 block of 51st Street, SE.

Palmer is also charged with tampering with physical evidence, and destruction of property worth $1,000 or more, kidnapping while armed and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict.  

During the hearing David Alkulian, Palmer’s defense attorney, and Michael Madden, Adgerson’s defense attorney, alerted Judge O’Keefe they were waiving their right to independently test DNA evidence. 

The prosecution noted they did DNA testing on the victim’s burned vehicle, objects inside the vehicle and strands of hair. According to the prosecution, all results were inconclusive.

Judge O’Keefe addressed both defendants and directly asked them if they were sure they didn’t want any DNA testing, to which they both agreed.  

Parties are slated to return Aug. 2.