3 hours ago
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Washington, DC Metropolitan Police have arrested two suspects in connection with the shooting of a US Park Police officer in southeast Washington on Monday evening, the Associated Press reported citing officials.
Authorities believe the officer may have been deliberately targeted, though a motive has not yet been established.
Suspects held within 24 hours
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) identified the accused as Darren Foster (21) and Asheile Foster (22), both residents of southeast DC Darren was arrested shortly after the incident, while Asheile was taken into custody the following day. Both have been charged with assault on a federal police officer with a firearm.
Officer shot while in unmarked vehicle
The incident took place around 7:30 pm when the officer, working on an investigation within US Park Police jurisdiction, was inside an unmarked vehicle. Two armed men allegedly approached and opened fire, striking the officer in the upper body, reportedly in the shoulder.Despite being injured, the officer managed to drive away from the scene before being airlifted to a hospital by the Park Police aviation unit.
Condition stable; officer discharged
Officials confirmed that the injuries were not life-threatening.
The officer, described as a veteran, has since been discharged from the hospital.Investigators indicated that the attackers may have known the individual inside the vehicle was a police officer. Interim police leadership noted that the shooting appeared to be a targeted act, though no further details on intent have been released.
Crime scene evidence and local fear
Visuals from the scene showed a bullet-riddled vehicle and multiple shell casings scattered across the area.
Residents reported hearing rapid gunfire, describing the incident as “very serious” and frightening, raising concerns about neighborhood safety.
Search operations and wider probe
Police executed a search warrant at a residence near the shooting site on Tuesday, with K-9 units assisting in the operation. Investigators were seen removing items from the property.The case is being handled by MPD’s NIBIN Investigations Unit, with support from federal agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, along with US Park Police detectives.
Background details emerge
Court records indicate that Asheile Foster has faced prior charges, including motor vehicle theft and weapons violations. Reports also suggest he was released following a court hearing just hours before the shooting, though officials have not formally linked that development to the incident.Authorities continue to examine evidence and have requested anyone with information to come forward as the probe into the shooting intensifies.
