Attempt To Retrieve Firearm Turns Fatal in DC

A Washington, D.C. officer has died in a tragic incident after a gun discharged while he was attempting to retrieve it from a storm drain.

At a Glance

A Washington, D.C., police officer, Wayne David, died after being accidentally shot while retrieving a gun from a storm drain.
Wayne David had served in the Metropolitan Police Department for over 25 years.
The suspect threw a gun into a storm drain before escaping on a motorcycle.
David was airlifted to a hospital where he later died.
Executive Assistant Chief Jeff Carroll described Wayne David as a hero who gave his life serving the community.

Incident Details

On a routine patrol in Northeast Washington, D.C., officers observed a person exiting a suspicious vehicle and fleeing on foot. The chase led to the suspect throwing a gun into a storm drain and escaping on a motorcycle. As officers attempted to retrieve the discarded firearm, it accidentally discharged, tragically striking Officer Wayne David. Recent reports indicate David attempted to use a metal tool used to unlock cars as a method of reaching the weapon.

Wayne David, a veteran officer with the Metropolitan Police Department for over 25 years, was airlifted to a hospital where he later died from his injuries.

A D.C. Police officer died after he was shot while trying to recover a suspect’s gun from a storm drain in Northeast Wednesday evening, according to Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officials.https://t.co/IHawDMjEZe

— FOX Baltimore (@FOXBaltimore) August 30, 2024

An Officer Remembered

Executive Assistant Chief Jeff Carroll described Wayne David as a dedicated and heroic officer. “Wayne is a true hero to the District of Columbia, and today he gave his life to serve the visitors and the residents here,” Carroll said. “We will never forget that.”

David had been a member of the Violent Crimes Suppression Division since 2007 and was highly respected by his peers. “He served with passion and honor and had the utmost respect of his peers,” said Police Chief Pamela Smith. “I will be forever grateful for Investigator David’s service to the Metropolitan Police Department, and his life will never be forgotten.”

Ongoing Investigation

Police are searching for the suspect described as a man with long dreads, last seen wearing a white T-shirt and blue shorts. The police investigation into the shooting is ongoing and they are seeking public assistance to identify the individual responsible.

This incident highlights the daily dangers officers face while performing their duties. The loss of Officer Wayne David is a stark reminder of the sacrifices our law enforcement officers make to protect the community. Officer David is survived by a son, a daughter, and a girlfriend, who grieve his untimely death and remember his legacy of service.