Man kills pedestrian in drunken hit-and-run, police say

By D.C. Witness Staff - February 14, 2017
Homicides | Suspects |

Before David Jones was found by police, stumbling around 14th street in a drunken stupor, police say he struck a pedestrian with his car, killing her.

Jones is currently being held without bond as he faces second-degree murder, driving under the influence and leaving after colliding charges.

According to charging documents, Carolyn Ellis and another pedestrian were crossing on 10th and U St., NW when a black car raced around the corner and struck Ellis, at around 10:45 p.m. Feb. 6.

According to a witness interview, Ellis’ body was thrown 8 to 10 feet in the air before hitting a parked car and landing on the street. Unconscious with blood coming from her mouth, Ellis was transported to a nearby hospital where she was pronounced dead. Ellis’ cause of death was declared major head trauma.

Shortly after the incident, a black car with damage consistent with striking a pedestrian was found illegally parked on 14th street. Upon inspecting the car, police found open beer bottles lying on the passenger side floor.

Prior to the incident, police officers saw black individual with dreadlocks speeding in a black car near the U-street intersection, according to the warrant.

Using that description canvassing officers were able to locate a visibly intoxicated Jones. Jones matched the description given previously and was holding the keys to the damaged black car. Jones was also holding a watch with a torn wrist band.

According to court documents, while an officer attempted to declare the defendant drunk, Jones said, “I’m drunk, lock me up.”

Jones will appear in court Feb. 17 for a preliminary hearing.