Chaos Erupts at Dupont Circle During WorldPride as Shooting and Stabbing Mar Evening Festivities
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A festive day in the nation’s capital took a troubling turn Saturday evening as Metropolitan Police and Metro Transit authorities responded to both a stabbing and a shooting near Dupont Circle — a central gathering point for WorldPride celebrations. The violent incidents occurred just hours after the park had been reopened to the public following contentious debate over earlier security closures.
According to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), the initial reports of violence emerged around 7:00 p.m. when two minors were involved in a stabbing incident inside Dupont Circle Park. Officials say the altercation between the two boys escalated quickly into a physical confrontation, resulting in both being injured. Emergency medical services arrived swiftly, and both minors were transported to local hospitals. MPD described their condition as “conscious and breathing” late Saturday evening.
Shortly afterward, at approximately 7:52 p.m., MPD responded to a separate but nearby shooting incident in the 1300 block of 19th Street NW — directly south of Dupont Circle. A man was shot in the foot and was also taken to the hospital, similarly reported to be “conscious and breathing.” The identities of the victims were not immediately released, and authorities have yet to clarify whether the two incidents were connected or occurred independently.
By 10:00 p.m., MPD had cleared the area, but not before the evening took a frightening turn for many revelers. At around 8:00 p.m., large crowds were seen fleeing along Massachusetts Avenue and through the circle, as EMS units rushed into the chaotic scene. Metro Transit Police quickly urged people to avoid the vicinity of Dupont Circle, stating in an alert: “Crowds around the circle MUST disperse.” The 19th Street entrance to the Dupont Circle Metro station was temporarily closed during the investigation, although the Q Street entrance and escalator remained operational.
The violence cast a grim shadow over what had been a joyful afternoon of celebration during WorldPride — a global event celebrating LGBTQ+ identity, diversity, and inclusion. Earlier in the day, thousands had turned out for the WorldPride parade, which ended without major incidents and was hailed as a vibrant display of unity and pride.
However, the tension surrounding Dupont Circle had been brewing for days. In preparation for the massive influx of visitors and heightened security concerns, the National Park Service had initially erected fencing around the park’s perimeter beginning Friday. Officials said the move was a proactive safety measure during the high-profile international event.
But not everyone agreed. The fencing decision drew backlash from local leaders and residents, who criticized it as alienating and unnecessary, particularly during an event meant to celebrate inclusivity and freedom. Dupont Circle — a historic site for LGBTQ+ activism and gathering — has long been considered a symbolic heart of D.C.’s queer community. Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Jeff Rueckgauer and other vocal critics called the fencing a “betrayal of the gay community,” demanding that the space remain open and accessible.
Amid growing pressure, city officials acquiesced, reopening the park earlier Saturday, only for violence to erupt just hours later.
The juxtaposition of a joyful celebration turning into a scene of emergency response left many in the community shaken. What was meant to be a powerful, affirming evening in the heart of the LGBTQ+ movement was instead marked by fear, disruption, and trauma.
As of Sunday morning, MPD had not announced any arrests in connection with either incident. Investigators are actively seeking witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage in hopes of identifying those involved. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact D.C. police or submit anonymous tips through the department’s tip line.
While the park has since been reopened, the events of Saturday night have prompted renewed debate over public safety, crowd control, and community trust during large-scale events. For many in the LGBTQ+ community and their allies, the night served as a stark reminder of the challenges that still persist — even amid celebration.
WorldPride festivities are expected to continue through the weekend with heightened police presence, as city officials work to restore calm and confidence in the wake of Saturday’s violence.