Bryant Russell, a 46-year-old resident of Monroe, North Carolina, has been indicted by a grand jury in connection with a shooting incident that took place on June 6, 2024, in the Deanwood neighborhood of Northeast D.C. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr. and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
On February 26, 2025, Russell faced charges in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia for aggravated assault while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm due to a prior conviction. If convicted on these charges, he could face up to 30 years in prison. The charge for aggravated assault is based on the D.C. Council’s Secure DC Omnibus Amendment Act of 2024 which classifies all gunshot wounds as serious bodily injury.
The government's evidence indicates that Russell fired one shot from the sidewalk at his victim who was sitting on his porch smoking; the bullet hit the victim's right arm.
After committing the alleged act, Russell reportedly fled but was apprehended on June 7, 2024. He has remained in custody since then.
The investigation into this case was conducted by both the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Green is leading the prosecution with support from Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Cocuzza.
It is important to note that an indictment is merely an allegation and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court.