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On Tuesday, the Metropolitan Police Department announced that a shooter has been arrested and charged as a juvenile with murder in connection to the fatal shooting of 14-year-old Avion Evans in the Brookland-Catholic University Metro Station in the 800 block Monroe Street NE.
The shooting was reported shortly before 4 p.m. on April 4.
'We're happy to have this suspect off the streets, and now we need the juvenile system, or the criminal justice system to hold him accountable," MPD Chief Pamela Smith said during a press conference on April 9. "This case is another reminder of the work we all have to do to engage our youth and make sure they do not take this path."
First responders found Evans on the platform on the day of the shooting suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene by DC Fire and EMS personnel who were called to the station.
Photos of the suspect were immediately released by the police, which Smith said were key to helping track down the teen shooter.
"Surveillance footage played a key role in this case," the chief said. "Within minutes, we distributed images of the suspect, and the community was instrumental and helpful in providing tips and calls that aided in this investigation."
Evans was remembered by his parents as being "smart, intelligent, loved to debate, he was funny, computer graphics, great game editor, running track and a host of other things."
"Nothing will ever be able to make Avion's family whole again," Smith added. "I speak for the entire District when I send our deepest sympathies. I hope this brings some measure of closure to anyone who knew Avion."
The 16-year-old was charged with second-degree murder on Tuesday. Smith said that he was the only suspected shooter, and he is being charged as a juvenile following a consultation with the Attorney General's Office.
"I think we talked about it a little last year ... We really need to do a lot more to engage our young people in positive activities, as opposed to activities such as this.
"I do believe that when young people or anyone commits this type of crime, they should be held accountable, whether they are tried as an adult or juvenile," Smith continued. "We will continue to work with our partners to make sure these people are held accountable."
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