Judge Denies Release of Non-Fatal Shooting Defendant 

By Ying He [former] - August 18, 2023
Daily Stories | Non-Fatal Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

On Aug.18, D.C. Superior Court Judge Antony Epstein denied the defense’s request for release of a shooting suspect. 

Byron Matthews, 18, is charged with two counts of assault with intent to kill and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for allegedly aiding and abetting a mass shooting, April 21, on the 500 block of LeBaum Street, SE and 2900 block of 2nd Street, SE. 

According to court documents, Matthews drove between two crime scenes assisting three unknown accomplices commit the shootings. 

At the hearing, Mathews’ defense attorney, Molly Bunke, mentioned the DC Jail denied Matthew’s special education program eligibility. Bunke then requested the defendant’s release to continue his education in the community. 

Judge Epstein rejected the defense’s request since this case is still under investigation. 

Matthews remains to be detained at DC Jail for court proceedings. 

The next hearing is scheduled for Oct.20.