Defendant Waives Rights to Independent DNA Testing in 2021 Murder Case

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On Sept. 21, a defendant waived his rights to independently test DNA evidence recovered from a homicide scene. 

Nyjell Outler, 21, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and assault with a dangerous weapon, for allegedly shooting 21-year-old Demetris Johnson on March 20, 2021, on the unit block of Madison Street, NE. The incident occurred at a gender-reveal party.

According to court documents, after arriving and speaking with a few guests attending the party, Outler leaned against a fence, pulled out a gun, and allegedly began firing at the guests. Two guests were injured, one of which succumbed to their injuries at the scene.

Outler is scheduled to reappear in front of DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe on Aug. 30, 2024 for a trial readiness hearing.

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