More Prosecution Evidence in Hit-and-Run Homicide Case

By Aubree Tomasetti [former] - October 4, 2023
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects | Traffic | Victims |

On Oct. 4, prosecutors continued their case in a 2020 hit-and-run homicide before DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan. 

Eric Beasley, 32, is charged with first-degree murder for his alleged involvement in a hit-and-run that resulted in the death of 45-year-old David Farewell while he was riding his bicycle. The incident occurred on Sept. 4, 2020 on the 2100 block of Young Street, SE.

Prosecutors called Farewell’s girlfriend, who had been with him when the hit-and-run occurred. She acknowledged a history of mental health issues but said she was not affected at the time of the incident nor during her testimony in court. 

The woman made an in-court identification, claiming that Beasley was the driver of the red car that followed her and Farewell out of the gas station which made her uncomfortable.

After the incident occurred, she stated, “It scared me. I ran.” 

During cross examination, Beasley’s defense attorneys’ argued her history of mental illness could have affected her testimony and perception of the incident. 

Defense attorney Madalyn Harvey stated, “Your superstitions influence how you see things sometimes.” 

The defense said Farewell’s girlfriend made claims about demons and one being inside of Beasley during the incident.

During the prosecution’s redirect, she was asked her to expand on her demon comment and she stated, “He [the defendant] hit my kids’ father aggressively with a car.” 

Prosecutors also called a 911 caller who had been walking her dog when she discovered the aftermath of the incident. 

She said she witnessed Beasley standing over Farewell, lifting his right arm, dropping it, then dragging him towards the parked cars on the street. 

In the 911 audio clip, she can be heard stating, “This man just hit this man with his car.” 

The prosecution called the medical examiner who performed Farewell’s autopsy. She testified about Farewell’s injuries displaying images of lacerations on his body, multiple fractured ribs, contusions, and burst blood vessels. The examiner testified the cause of death was multiple blunt force injuries and the manner of death was homicide. 

The trial is expected to continue on Oct. 5.