Mass Shooting Defendant Pleads Not Guilty at Arraignment

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A homicide defendant pleaded not guilty to a mass shooting before DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun on Oct. 1.

Jalonte Thompkins, 31, is charged with three counts of first-degree murder premeditated while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, conspiracy while armed, and unlawful possession of a firearm. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of James Morgan, 34, 30-year-old Jamal Morgan, and 42-year-old Vincent Martin. The incident occurred on the 2500 block of Ontario Road, NW on Aug. 5, 2023. Two additional individuals sustained injuries during the incident.

According to court documents, Jamal and James were siblings.

Defense attorney Brandi Harden alerted the court of the defendant’s intent to plead not guilty, and requested a speedy trial, asserting his constitutional rights.

Both parties agreed to a jury trial scheduled for May 14, 2026, already delayed due to the complexity of the case. The defense predicts the trial could last six weeks.

Harden alerted the court she plans to file a motion to dismiss the conspiracy charge within a month. Judge Okun told parties the prosecution will have a chance to respond in writing before he rules.

The judge granted Harden’s additional request for an extension of 14 days to respond to the prosecution’s previous motion to allow for further DNA testing.

Parties will reconvene Dec. 12.