ATF Offers $10K Reward for Information After Officer Dies Trying to Recover Firearm
Total possible reward up to $50K
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to an arrest of the individual in connection with the incident related to an officer dying in an attempt to recover a firearm.
This is in addition to a reward of up to $20,000 offered by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Washington Field Office and $20,000 offered by the Metropolitan Police Department bringing the total to a possible reward up to $50,000.
On Wednesday, August 28, at approximately 5:40 p.m., officers from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Robbery Suppression Unit were canvassing the area of the 4500 block of Quarles Street, Northeast, when they saw a man exit a suspicious vehicle. Officers attempted to make contact with the man, but he fled. When fleeing, officers witnessed the man place a firearm in a storm drain. While one of the officers was attempting to retrieve the firearm as evidence, the gun discharged striking the officer. Other officers immediately began providing care and the officer was transported by the Metropolitan Police Department’s helicopter to an area hospital, where he later died.
“This is such a tragic and unnecessary incident that took place. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family, friends and our Metropolitan Police Department partners. We want you all to know that we stand with you during this difficult time,” said ATF Washington Field Division acting Special Agent in Charge James VanVliet. “Rest assured that the men and women of the ATF are working tirelessly to find the person who carelessly discarded the firearm that killed MPD Inspector Wayne David. ATF will continue to collaborate with our local, state and federal partners to ensure the suspect is apprehended and held accountable for all actions surrounding this tragedy. We call upon our courageous community members and leaders to provide any information that will assist us in locating those responsible.”
This case is currently being investigated by the NIBIN Investigations Unit (NIU) which includes ATF Special Agents and detectives from the Metropolitan Police Department.
Photos of the suspect can be seen pictured below.
Suspect running.
Side by side images of subject.
Anyone with information about this incident should contact ATF at 888 -ATF-TIPS (888-283-8477). Information can also be sent to ATFTips@atf.gov, through ATF’s website at www.atf.gov/contact/atftips. Tips can be submitted anonymously using the Reportit® app, available from both Google Play and the Apple App store, or by visiting www.reportit.com. Tips can also be submitted anonymously by calling MPD at (202) 727-9099 or by texting 50411.
