Detective Testifies About Hardware Store Evidence in Murder case

By Hunter Odom [former] - June 9, 2023
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects | Victims |

On June 9, a detective from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) testified about physical evidence in a homicide case. 

Lavaughn Barnes, 32, is charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of Abdul Arias-Lopez, 59, that occurred on Nov. 4, 2022 on the 1300 block of Kearny Street, NE. 

Barnes allegedly tased Arias-Lopez, then dragged him into his sister’s basement where he repeatedly stabbed him. Barnes allegedly confessed to detectives that he used the ax to dismember the victim, then threw then the body parts in the trash.  However, he’s since withdrawn his confession and is pleading not guilty.

Anthony Matthews, Barnes attorney, questioned the detective about surveillance videos from a nearby hardware store.  Allegedly, Barnes bought a stun gun and an axe there. A receipt offered as evidence from the hardware store is dated November 2022, the month Arias-Lopez was murdered, and is allegedly connected to a “Mr. Barnes.” 

The detective also discussed security camera footage taken around the same time that allegedly shows Barnes disposing of what appear to be garbage bags. 

When asked if the footage showed the victim arriving at home that same day, the detective answered, “I don’t know.” 

Matthews also asked the detective about his encounters with Barnes during the course of the investigation.  The defense says that because Barnes was cognitively disabled, his confession was invalid.

According to the detective, it was believed early on that Barnes has cognitive disabilities, and that he spent time with the defendant’s sister–something the sister verified.

DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun decided to conclude arguments in the case at the next hearing. 

Parties are expected back June 14.