Homicide Defendant Asserts His Right to DNA Testing

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On Nov 15, homicide defendant Aaron Murchison asserted his rights to independent DNA testing.

Murchison, 27, is charged with second-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm, and unlawful possession of a firearm for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 32-year-old Jamontate Brown on Oct 16, 2022, at the 2500 block of Pomeroy Road, SE.

According to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) documents, ShotSpotter notified officers of gunfire. The ShotSpotter system assists in locating gunfire throughout the District.

Upon arriving at the scene, MPD officers found Brown unconscious and not breathing on the sidewalk. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to court documents, there were 80 spent cartridge casings, four rounds of ammunition, and twenty-two fragments found on the scene. An autopsy revealed Brown had been struck with eleven gunshots. There was no evidence of close-range fire.

Court documents depict two groups shooting at each other, but those individuals have not been identified.

Surveillance footage from nearby cameras allegedly capture Murchinson in the area with a firearm before and after the shooting.

The prosecution stated they intend to do DNA testing and are in the process of getting a buccal swab of the inside of the defendant’s cheek completed.

The defense attorney, Kevann Gardner, told the court his client wants to do independent DNA testing and “will not waive his rights.”

DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo reminded the parties to complete testing as soon as possible so the court stays on track for the June 5, 2024 trial date.

The parties are expected back on Feb 2.

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