Judge Modifies Carjacking, Shooting Defendant’s Release Conditions 

By Lucy Orgolini - September 19, 2024
Carjacking | Daily Stories | Shooting | Suspects |

DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno modified a shooting defendant’s release conditions to allow him to participate in a work-study program on Sept. 18.

Elijah Hernandez, 19, is charged with unarmed carjacking, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, assault with a dangerous weapon, and unauthorized use of a vehicle during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a carjacking turned shooting on June 21 on the 1300 block of 13th Street, NW. 

According to court documents, officers responded to the scene, where they located the victim suffering from a gunshot wound to his buttocks. 

A witness told officers that the victim was pumping gas when two suspects, one of them later identified as Hernandez, according to court documents, approached the victim and jumped into the victim’s vehicle. The victim attempted to fight them off before being shot. 

During the hearing, Hernandez’s attorney, Joseph Fay, requested his release conditions, which were implemented on Aug. 14 and required him to be on GPS monitoring and home confinement, be modified. 

Fay told Judge Salerno that Hernandez wants to attend classes that will help with vocational training. 

Judge Salerno granted the request, stating he does not want to interfere with someone’s work training. Hernandez’ case manager confirmed his involvement in the program and its time requirements. 

Parties are slated to reconvene Feb. 21.