Trial Postponed to Locate Defendant’s Girlfriend as Witness

By Sofia Feigelson - May 22, 2024
Court | Daily Stories | Non-Fatal Shooting | Shooting | Suspects |

DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo granted the prosecution’s May 22 request for a one day continuance for a homicide trial, in order to locate an important witness – the defendant’s girlfriend. 

On August 30, 2022, Tyrone Astorias Johnson, 43, allegedly fired multiple shots at a male victim in a non-fatal incident. The shooting occurred in the early morning at a park on the 1500 block of Maryland Avenue, NE.

Johnson is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, and assault with significant bodily injury while armed.

Surveillance footage shows individuals resembling Johnson and his girlfriend near the scene and entering the park.

According to court documents, the victim told a detective that Johnson asked him for a cigarette, but the victim responded he did not have one. Johnson then reportedly removed a firearm from his waistband area and began firing at the victim from about 10 feet away.

According to court documents, the victim sustained eight gunshot wounds to the lower body, including four to the left thigh, two to the right thigh, and two to the genitalia.

On May 21, the prosecution stated they have been making numerous efforts to locate the defendant’s girlfriend with assistance from US Marshals who have “commenced canvassing.”

Defense attorney Joseph Fay was not opposed to the one day continuance, but requested that they “need to be more aware” of the situation about locating the witness because they also plan on questioning her.

“I do understand, defense, it’s hard for you to argue,” said Judge Demeo in reference to the defense’s lack of knowledge of the situation. 

Judge Demeo approved the trial delay.

Parties are slated to reconvene May 22.