Judge Holds Metro Bus Stabbing Suspect

Thank you for reading D.C. Witness.
Consider making a donation to help us continue our mission.

Donate Now

DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld denied release on April 15 for a stabbing defendant suffering from medical issues.

Ankintola Olowofoyeku, 43, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a stabbing that occurred on a DC Metro Bus at the intersection of the 5400 Block of Georgia Avenue, NW and Jefferson Street NW on July 21, 2024. 

According to prosecutors, during the incident, Olowofoyeku entered the bus and allegedly threatened to shoot two individuals if they refused to get off the vehicle as ordered. That led to a physical altercation on the bus floor between the two individuals and Olowofoyeku.

Olowofoyeku, says the prosecution, was armed with a switchable pocketknife that he used to stab one individual in the right hamstring, left forearm, and left middle finger. After the incident, the individual was transferred to Howard Hospital where he was treated for his injuries. 

In response, Olowofoyeku’s defense attorney, Santia McLaurin, stated that she is waiting on some missing evidence and police body-worn camera footage that could have documented the incident. McLaurin said Olowofoyeku is open to plea negotiations, but she is ready for trial if necessary.  

The prosecutor said a search hasn’t turned up body-worn camera evidence and it may not exist. Further, because a plea offer was rejected earlier on in the case, the prosecution wants to proceed with a trial instead of presenting another offer.

Olowofoyeku’s defense attorney said no weapon was found at the scene and no weapon can be spotted in video footage of the crime. 

McLaurin requested that Olowofoyeku be released to his home where he helps his sister with household duties. McLaurin also mentioned several of Olowofoyeku’s medical concerns, including an acute need of dental surgery due to a broken tooth implant. Olowofoyeku currently has no access to mental health medications.

Judge Hertzfeld denied the request for Olowofoyeku’s release and issued a medical alert upon the defense attorney’s request for access to mental health medications for Olowofoyeku.

Parties also scheduled a trial date for June 16. 

Parties are scheduled to reconvene June 5.