Tragedy on Benning Road: 28-Year-Old Woman Fatally Shot in Early Morning Incident
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A somber and chilling moment unfolded early Saturday morning as yet another life was lost to gun violence in the nation’s capital. Authorities from the Metropolitan Police Department have confirmed that a woman was fatally shot in the 2000 block of Benning Road, Northeast, sending a wave of grief through the community and further intensifying growing concerns about safety in the area.
According to officials, the incident occurred shortly before 1 a.m., at approximately 12:51 a.m., when officers from the Sixth District were flagged down by a concerned individual. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered an adult woman suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. The chaotic and tragic scene was one of urgency as first responders from D.C. Fire and EMS provided emergency aid and rushed the victim to a nearby hospital. Despite their efforts, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The victim has been identified as 28-year-old Daquane Johnson, a resident of Northeast Washington, D.C. Her death marks another painful entry in the city’s mounting toll of lives lost to senseless gunfire, an epidemic that continues to devastate families and destabilize communities across the District.
As detectives work diligently to uncover the events that led up to the fatal shooting, no arrests have yet been announced. Investigators have not released any suspect information or identified a possible motive, and it remains unclear whether Johnson was targeted or caught in the crossfire of a larger dispute.
The area near the scene was temporarily cordoned off as crime scene technicians collected evidence and canvassed the neighborhood for witnesses or surveillance footage that might offer clues. Residents in the area described being shaken by the violence. “It’s heartbreaking,” one neighbor said. “We just celebrated the Fourth of July, and now we’re waking up to another shooting. It feels like it never ends.”
This tragic incident comes just days after a 15-year-old was shot in the Navy Yard area on July 4, and amid widespread concern over an increasingly volatile holiday weekend in the city. Community members have expressed growing frustration and fear as gun violence persists, often striking without warning and leaving families in mourning.
In response to the surge in violent crime, the Metropolitan Police Department has continued its call for public cooperation. Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or who may have relevant information—no matter how seemingly minor—to come forward. Those with tips are encouraged to contact MPD at (202) 727-9099 or send an anonymous message via the TEXT TIP LINE at 50411.
Meanwhile, community leaders and activists are renewing their calls for comprehensive approaches to gun violence prevention, emphasizing not only the need for law enforcement but also investment in youth programs, mental health services, and economic opportunities to disrupt cycles of violence.
As the investigation continues, friends and loved ones of Daquane Johnson are left grappling with the sudden loss of a young woman whose life was cut short far too soon. A life with hopes, dreams, and potential—now ended in a moment of unimaginable violence on a quiet D.C. street.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.