A homicide defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges at an arraignment before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on March 20.
Mercury Ford, 21, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of Tequila Parker, 32, on the 2300 block of Pitts Place, SE, on May 27, 2025. Parker sustained two gunshot wounds to her back and thigh.
According to court documents, surveillance footage allegedly showed Parker fighting another person who was with Ford. Parker attempted to run away when Ford allegedly took out a gun and fired at her as she ran. The footage then reportedly showed Parker falling to the ground.
At the hearing, the court formally arraigned Ford on the charges against him and his attorney, Yladrea Nicola Drummond, pleaded not guilty on his behalf and asserted his right to a speedy trial.
Parties are scheduled to reconvene on May 18.
