DC Carjacking Suspect Charged with Murder After Passenger Dies
Washington, D.C.
– A carjacking suspect in Washington, D.C., has been charged with murder after a passenger in the stolen vehicle died during a police chase. On Tuesday, October 18, 2022, authorities responded to a report of a carjacking in the southeast area of the city. According to police, 18-year-old Kei’Monte Heard allegedly approached a man sitting in his vehicle and demanded the keys. The victim complied, and Heard fled in the stolen car. Shortly after, officers spotted the stolen vehicle and attempted to pull it over. A police chase ensued, during which Heard allegedly drove recklessly and reached speeds of over 100 miles per hour. During the pursuit, one of Heard’s passengers, identified as 19-year-old Michael Banks, was thrown from the vehicle and died at the scene. Another passenger, a 15-year-old girl, was injured and taken to a hospital. Heard was apprehended after crashing the stolen vehicle into a tree. He has been charged with felony murder, carjacking, and other related offenses. According to police, Heard has a lengthy criminal history, including previous arrests for robbery and assault. “This is a senseless tragedy that has resulted in the loss of a young life,” said Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert Contee. “Our officers will not tolerate these types of violent and dangerous acts, and we will hold those responsible accountable.” The death of Michael Banks marks the 15th homicide in Washington, D.C., in October 2022. The city has seen a sharp increase in violent crime in recent months, raising concerns among residents and law enforcement officials. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses to build a strong case against Heard. He is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on October 24, 2022.
Suspect Charged with Murder After Passenger Dies in DC Carjacking
Washington, D.C.
– A suspect has been charged with murder after a passenger in a stolen car was shot and killed during a carjacking in Washington, D.C. According to NBC4 Washington, the incident occurred on Friday, February 24, 2023, at around 4:30 p.m. in the 1100 block of 50th Street NE. Police say the suspect, identified as 20-year-old Justin Hawkins, approached a man who was sitting in his car. Hawkins allegedly displayed a gun and demanded the victim’s keys. The victim complied, and Hawkins drove away in the stolen vehicle. However, the victim’s friend jumped into the backseat of the car in an attempt to retrieve it. During the struggle, Hawkins allegedly fired a shot, striking the victim’s friend in the chest. The victim’s friend was transported to a local hospital, where he later died. Hawkins has been charged with first-degree murder while armed, armed carjacking, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. He is currently being held without bond. The investigation into the incident is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Metropolitan Police Department at 202-727-9099.
