WASHINGTON, D.C. — A shooting near an elementary school track meet in Northeast D.C. on Tuesday afternoon left one person dead, authorities confirmed. Fortunately, no students or school staff were harmed during the incident, but the event sent shockwaves through the local community.
Shooting Occurs Near Spingarn High School During Elementary Track Meet
The shooting happened near Spingarn High School, close to the track field where the District of Columbia Interscholastic Athletics Association (DCIAA) was holding a meet for fourth and fifth graders.
According to police, the victim was walking on a sidewalk near the Spingarn Track Field when three male suspects approached and opened fire. Emergency crews arrived shortly before 2 p.m. in response to reports from the 800 block of 26th Street NE, near Benning Road.
Students and Schools React Amidst Chaos
While the sound of gunfire initially confused some attendees, many thought it might be part of the meet. Student athlete Erin Schmidt recalled her shock:
“We thought they were like testing the starting pistol,” she said. “Then I glanced at the field and I was like, wait, nobody’s on there.”
Erin, 11, had hoped to compete in the 200 and 400-meter races but instead found herself and her teammates running for cover as adults shouted for everyone to get down.
Nearby schools including Phelps High School, J.O. Wilson Elementary, and Browne Education Campus were placed on alert, but all students and staff were reported safe and accounted for.
Police Investigation Underway; Suspects Flee in Vehicle
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said the three suspects fled the scene in a vehicle that was later found on fire in the Fort Lincoln area. The ATF and FBI are assisting with the investigation, and police are reviewing surveillance footage to identify the suspects.
Police Chief Pamela Smith condemned the violence:
“No child should ever have to experience what was experienced today. This incident is completely unacceptable during an elementary school track meet.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact MPD to help bring those responsible to justice.
Meet Cancelled; Students Safely Returned Home
Following the shooting, DC Public Schools officials coordinated transportation to return all students to their respective schools safely. Kim Jackson, D.C.’s chief of schools, sent a letter to families explaining that no one connected to the meet was involved in the shooting and that the event was cancelled for the safety of all.
Community Responds with Concern and Resilience
Parents and students alike expressed sadness and worry. One mother, on her way to watch her son compete, said, “I can’t believe it’s actually happening to us.”
Erin shared her disappointment:
“It’s a bummer because I really wanted to run, and this was the last meet of the year.”
Despite the tragic event, the community is rallying together, emphasizing safety and support for the children.
How to Help
Anyone with tips or information about the suspects is encouraged to call the Metropolitan Police Department. Authorities have vowed to hold the responsible parties accountable and ensure the safety of children in the city.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and community care to protect our youngest members during public events.
If you have photos, videos, or information related to this case, please share them with MPD to assist in the investigation.
“This article was written by Mathew Owen. AI tools were used lightly for grammar and formatting, but the ideas, words, and edits are all mine.”
