Police Chief Announces Two Arrests in Recent Shootings

By D.C. Witness Staff - January 26, 2022
Daily Stories | Documents | Homicides | Suspects | Victims |

Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert J. Contee III announced that two arrests have been made in separate shootings that took place in the past week. 

An arrest was made in relation to a Jan. 19 homicide. Sierra Johnson, 26, was sitting in her car with her two children when she was shot and killed in the 2500 block of Georgia Avenue, NW.  

“I extend my condolences to the family, especially the children of Mrs. Johnson. She did not deserve to die,” Chief Contee said. 

On Jan. 25, officers arrested 27-year-old Joseph Fox and charged him with second-degree murder while armed, felon in possession and carrying a pistol without a license. Detectives believe the homicide to have been domestic in nature.

A second arrest was also made in relation to a non-fatal officer-involved shooting. 

Officers attempted to make contact with a man shortly before 9:00 p.m. on the 1300 block of Spring Street, NW. While the officers were getting out of their car, the suspect opened fire and hit one officer, according to police. 

Chief Contee said an “illegal firearm” with an extended magazine that is believed to have been used in the crime was recovered the same night as the shooting. 

“Last year over 2,400 illegal firearms were recovered by members of the Metropolitan Police Department,” Chief Contee said, advocating for people to call in tips if they are aware of any ghost guns in DC. 

Police arrested 28-year-old Devon Easton and charged him with assault with intent to kill while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, assaulting a law enforcement officer while armed and unlawful possession of a firearm.

The officer is currently recovering at home. 

During the press conference, Chief Contee thanked those who helped with the arrest along with those who assist in helping fight violent crime.