Murder Defendant’s DNA Found at Crime Scene

By D.C. Witness Staff - September 20, 2019
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During a status hearing Sept. 20, a prosecutor said a murder defendant’s DNA was found on the scene of a homicide. The defendant is one of four people charged in the murder. 

Derek Turner is charged with first-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to kill, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and unlawful possession of a firearm for allegedly shooting 28-year-old Andrew McPhatter on the 3500 block of Wheeler Road, SE in March of 2017.  Ronnika Jennings is also charged with first-degree murder, conspiracy, and accessory after the fact for her alleged role in the shooting. Marshay Hazelwood, 26, and 28-year-old Duan Hill are charged with obstruction of justice and conspiracy. Both are released on personal recognizance. 

The prosecution tested clothes and the murder weapon found in a car that was used in the homicide. The DNA on the clothing matched Tuner, but not anyone else involved in the case. DNA on the weapon could not be matched to any of the defendants. 

Turner was not present in court because he is currently in a North Carolina for another homicide case. 

According to court documents, Turner was a member of the Wahler Place neighborhood crew. McPhatter was a member of the Trenton Park neighborhood. Apparently, the two neighborhoods were revivals.

DC Superior Court Judge Juliet McKenna asked the defendants if they wanted to conduct independent testing on the items. Each defendant declined to have further testing done. 

According to counsel, the trial is scheduled to take six weeks.  

Turner is also being charged with first-degree murder while armed for allegedly shooting Devin Hall on the 3500 block of 6th St., SE in January of 2017.

A status hearing for all of the defendants is scheduled on Nov. 1.