A jury in DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan’s courtroom heard opening statements and multiple witnesses testify, including the victim’s fiancee, on Aug. 5.
Jajuan Gripper, 22, is charged with conspiracy, first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, for his alleged involvement in the death of 34-year-old Rynell Bradford. The incident occurred on the 1500 block of Anacostia Avenue, NE on Dec. 20, 2022.
In opening statements, the prosecution showed surveillance footage of the victim being shot and collapsing face-first. The prosecution argued that the shooting was an act of retaliation after Bradford allegedly took a Glock 22 from Gripper and two other men. When asked by the group if he had the gun, Bradford said no and that he was going to the car. His diversion did not work and he had to flee, with the three men chasing after him and opening fire, according to the prosecutor. .
Bradford’s fiancée witnessed the shooting from the bedroom window of their shared apartment, according to the prosecutor.
The prosecution noted that the Glock 22 was never fired, and Bradford did not pose a threat to the three individuals when he was murdered.
The prosecution informed the jury that there was identification, forensic, and getaway evidence connected to Gripper. The prosecution clarified that the defendant can be guilty of the crime, even if he did not fire the fatal shot.
Gripper’s defense attorney, Wole Falodun, said the person who shot the victim is not depicted on video. Falodun argued that the victim turned around and pointed a gun at Gripper. He stated that Gripper acted in self-defense, not as part of a planned conspiracy.
He also noted that Bradford had a blood alcohol level that was four times the legal limit to drive.
Following opening statements, the prosecution called Bradford’s fiancée to the stand. She testified she shared an apartment with the victim, near the site of the crime scene.
Bradford’s fiancée testified that, on the day of the incident, Bradford returned to the apartment intoxicated, but sobered up after a nap. She recalled that, when Bradford left to take out the trash, he was taking longer than usual.
The fiancee testified that when she looked out the window, she saw Bradford being followed by three men wearing big coats. She heard one of the men ask “you got that 22?” with the victim responding,“Don’t play with guns.”
She said she witnessed the men chasing after Bradford and shooting at him when he ran out of sight. She later heard one of the men say, “You killed them, bruh,” with another man responding ,“They say he was still moving.”
The prosecution presented the witness’ 911 call to the court. The witness was heard sobbing over the phone, telling emergency services that her fiancée just got shot and that he was no longer breathing.
During cross-examination, Falodun questioned the fiancée about Bradford’s possessing a gun. The witness stated she could not see Bradford holding a weapon, since it was dark outside. She admitted that she could not say that Bradford did not threaten or point a gun at anyone.
One of Bradford’s neighbors testified that he overheard gunshots coming from the back of the apartment building. He heard someone ask “Did you kill them?”
Parties are set to reconvene Aug. 6.
