Parties Prepare for Murder Trial More Than Three Years After Teen’s Death

By Jay McDonald [former] - February 2, 2022
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Juveniles | Shooting |

Parties met in court to prepare for an October murder trial centered on the fatal shooting of a teenage boy that took place more than three years ago.

On December 13, 2018, 15-year-old Gerald Watson was found inside a building on the 2900 block of Knox Place, SE. He had sustained 17 gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead soon after. A witness said they saw two gunmen, one of whom they knew by the name “Malik,” according to court documents.

Three days after the shooting, police arrested Malik Holston, who was 16-years-old at the time. Now, his defense team is preparing for trial. 

During the most recent hearing on Feb. 2, parties went over key facts and figures for the trial. 

The prosecutor estimated they will call 20 to 25 witnesses, including five experts. They also plan to conduct another round of DNA testing since the Department of Forensic Sciences recently lost its accreditation. 

Defense attorney Shawn Sukumar said the defense will only have two or three witnesses and no experts. He does not plan on conducting any DNA testing.

DC Superior Court Judge Rainy Brandt gave parties until June 6 to submit their motions with responses due by Sept. 2. A motion hearing is scheduled for Sept. 8.