Newsroom

Statement In Response to the Death of a Child In Ward 3

I am terribly saddened to learn of the passing of DeAndre Pettus, a 5-year-old child, in Ward 3 on Sunday. My heart goes out to his family, as well as the Murch Elementary School community during this difficult time. At this time, we still do not know all the details of what led to this horrific tragedy. The Metropolitan Police Department made an arrest on the preliminary charge of first-degree cruelty to children, those charges were filed by the U.S. Attorney's Office, and the defendant appeared in D.C. Superior Court on Monday afternoon. Prosecutors await autopsy results, and the investigation is ongoing. The loss is heartbreaking and sadly follows the death in Ward 3 just the week prior of 1-year-old Journee Moore of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, which is being investigated as a homicide. These tragedies are reminders that laying a forceful hand on a child is never acceptable. They also underscore the imperative for the city to provide adequate services to our families with the greatest needs, and clearly there is more we need to…

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Statement In Response to the Loss of MPD Investigator Wayne David

Yesterday, Investigator Wayne David, a 25-year Metropolitan Police Department veteran, tragically lost his life in the line of duty. My deepest sympathies go to his loved ones and colleagues during this difficult time. Investigator David dedicated his life to helping make his native DC a safer place. He was committed to getting guns off our streets, and this loss is yet another reminder that the scourge of guns and the pain they cause continues to plague the District. Every day, our police officers and first responders risk their lives to keep their neighbors safe from harm, and they deserve our thanks and support. I join the entire city in expressing my condolences to the family of Investigator David, as well as my gratitude to all at MPD for their bravery and sacrifice. Matt Frumin Ward 3 Councilmember

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