A homicide defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges, including three counts of first-degree murder, at a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on July 24.
Rahsaan Smith, 29, is charged with three counts of first-degree murder while armed with an aggravating factor of more than one offense arising from the incident, assault with intent to kill while armed, four counts possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction.
The charges stem from Smith’s alleged involvement in a shooting that killed 34-year-old Reginald Gilbert, 27-year-old Tymea Cook, and 35-year-old Bernard Hodges, and injured two additional individuals. The incident occurred on Aug. 5, 2023, on the 1600 block of Good Hope Road, SE. Gilbert and Cook sustained single gunshot wounds to the chest and head, and Hodges sustained multiple gunshot wounds.
At the hearing, Smith’s attorney, Lisbeth Sapirstein, entered a plea of not guilty on all counts and invoked Smith’s right to a speedy trial. Sapirstein also consented to standard protective orders.
Prosecutors indicated they may offer a plea deal but are still in preliminary discussions.
Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Oct. 23.
