Death of Awlachew Ayele ruled a homicide

Thank you for reading D.C. Witness.
Help us continue our mission into 2025 by donating to our end of year campaign.

Donate Now


The Medical Examiner ruled on Wednesday that the cause of death for a 66-year-old man found after a fire was extinguished is homicide.

Awlachew Ayele was found by emergency workers responding to a report of a fire in the 1100 block of Queen St., NE. on Jan. 26.

An autopsy revealed Ayele died from smoke and soot inhalation, and other “significant” facts in his death included blunt-force injuries.

Police have not yet released any suspect information.