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(NSFW) Airsoft Rifle Misidentified During De-Escalation Attempt, Suspect Killed
Published 3 years ago
Agents from the Metropolitan Police Department’s (MPD) Internal Affairs Bureau are investigating an officer involved shooting that occurred on Tuesday, August 31, 2021, in the 1400 block of V Street, Northwest.
At approximately 6:55 pm, uniformed patrol officers from the Third District were dispatched to the 1400 block of V Street, Northwest, for the report of a male suspect armed with a gun. Officers were directed to an apartment where they made contact with the male suspect. After the male suspect emerged from within the apartment, officers engaged the male suspect in conversation, attempting to deescalate the situation.
The male suspect re-entered the apartment and closed the door, before once again briefly emerging to verbally engage the officers, and again closing the door. The male suspect emerged a third time from the apartment, brandishing an apparent rifle-style weapon.
The male suspect pointed the weapon in the direction of officers. In response, one officer discharged their firearm, striking the male suspect. Officers immediately began immediate lifesaving efforts. DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and transported the male suspect to a local area hospital where, after all life-saving efforts failed, the individual was pronounced dead.
The decedent has been identified as 34 year-old George Watson, of Northwest, DC.
The suspect’s firearm was recovered and is pictured below:
The MPD members involved have been placed on administrative leave, pursuant to MPD policy. Body worn camera footage from this incident is currently under review.
This case remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact MPD at (202) 727-9099.
