A wave of gun-related violence swept through Washington, D.C., on the evening of April 10, 2024, leading to two deaths and multiple injuries, including those of young children. The community was left reeling as a series of shootings happened in several neighborhoods over a period of less than five hours.

The first incident occurred at approximately 6:10 p.m. in Carver Langston, a typically peaceful neighborhood. On the 1100 block of 21st Street NE, police discovered a 29-year-old man, Aubrey McLeod, from Largo, Maryland, deceased. Four others, including two men, a woman, and a nine-year-old boy, were injured but survived. A 12-year-old boy, suffering from gunshot injuries, walked into a local hospital on his own.

The suspects are believed to have exited their vehicle and fired at a crowd on the street.

Later that night, more shootings occurred. At about 9:15 p.m., police responded to a call on the 3500 block of 10th Street NW, where they found a critically injured man who was rushed to a hospital. A second individual from this incident passed away at a hospital after self-transporting.

Just before 11 p.m. another shooting was reported on the 1800 block of Benning Road NW. A man was wounded and transported to a hospital, adding to the toll of the night’s violence.

Authorities are currently searching for two suspects, reportedly riding a moped, believed to be associated with the violent acts.

In response to the incidents, community leaders and residents are demanding action. A local father, who has lost three sons to gun violence, made an impassioned plea for assistance, emphasizing the need for more than thoughts and prayers. “We need help,” he said in an interview, a sentiment shared by many in the community who are weary of such violence disrupting their lives.

The district’s police department has increased patrols and released images of a vehicle believed to be involved in one of the shootings, in an attempt to capture those responsible. As investigations continue, the community remains nervous, mourning the victims and supporting the survivors.

Last year, violent crime in the District of Columbia saw a 39% surge, including a 35% increase in homicides and a near doubling of carjackings. In light of these figures, local authorities have intensified legislative efforts to enforce stricter penalties for gun-related offenses in the capital.