Jury Begins Deliberating 2021 Double Homicide

By Jenna Gainsboro [former] - July 19, 2023
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting |

On July 19, after closing arguments, the jury began deliberating a 2021 double homicide case.

Jalen Browne, 21, is charged with two counts of first-degree murder while armed, four counts of assault with intent to kill, and six counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a fatal shooting on the 100 block of Q Street, NW, on July 25, 2021. 

Of the six victims, three weren’t physically injured. However, Jovan Hill Jr, 22, and Tariq Riley, 19, later died at MedStar Hospital. A third victim, 22, suffered a gunshot wound to the lower back but survived.

The prosecutors described the case as a “puzzle,” and stated that she would hopefully be able to put it together for the jury. 

The key evidence against Browne is that his vehicle was allegedly present during the shooting, then seen speeding away afterward. His cellphone records suggest he was out of communication at the time in spite of his family’s repeated efforts to reach him.

Even though witnesses refused to identify Browne as the shooter, the prosecutor insists “The man who open fired on those six young men…that man is the defendant, Jalen Browne.”

The prosecutors’ argument is that Browne is guilty considering the timeline, location and access. “Is that a coincidence? Ask yourself, is that a coincidence?,” jurors were told. 

According to the defense, prosecutors failed to prove that Browne was the shooter, “there is a distinction between what the government believes and what they have failed to prove,” said Brian McDaniel, Browne’s attorney. 

He noted the inconclusive testimony of the witnesses.

Also, during the trial, there were suggestions that someone close to Browne have orchestrated the homicides. McDaniel argued that amounts to reasonable doubt. 

Jury deliberations are slated to begin July 20 and are expected to last for a few days.