Shooting Defendant Accepts Plea in Thrown Food Order Melee

By Sofia Feigelson , Laura Berol - May 6, 2024
Daily Stories | Non-Fatal Shooting | Suspects |

Eric Davis, a 35-year-old resident of Lanham, Maryland, accepted a pre-indictment plea offer for a shooting in front of DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan on May 6. 

Davis pled guilty to aggravated assault while armed, on condition that the government not indict him for the greater charge of assault with intent to kill while armed. He faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and or a $75,000 fine, with a minimum penalty of 5 years in prison. 

According to court documents, on May 30, 2023, Davis shot an employee multiple times at a carryout restaurant in the 1400 block of H Street, NE.  

The altercation started after Davis attempted to help his friend who was having difficulty making a food purchase. As the transaction progressed, the victim threw the food order at Davis, and he then threw it back. Surveillance video captures the moment Davis then pulled out a gun and shot the worker.

The prosecutor stated that the victim, who has undergone multiple surgeries and still requires more, is left with one eye and must wear a colostomy bag. The victim will give his impact statement in Spanish at the sentencing.

At the hearing, Judge Raffinan informed Davis that he was surrendering his right to trial in accepting the plea deal. Davis, assisted by his attorney, Michael Bruckheim, said he understood the agreement and accepted the terms. 

Davis’ sentencing will be held on July 26.