x
Breaking News
More () »

'This is supposed to be a safe space' | 14-year-old boy killed in shooting outside Northeast DC rec center

Neighbors who live nearby were shocked by the violence in the community.

WASHINGTON — D.C. Police are investigating a double shooting that occurred in Northeast. The shooting left a 14-year-old dead.

Officers received calls Thursday evening just before 8 p.m., for reports of a shooting at the Lamond Recreation Center. When they arrived they found two men suffering from gunshot wounds. 

Police say one of the victims was a 14-year-old. The teen, was not conscious or breathing when police arrived. First responders later pronounced him dead at the scene. He was identified Friday as David Bailey of Northeast D.C.

The second victim, an 18-year-old was taken to a local hospital in critical condition.

Police say a basketball game was being played inside of the rec center, but it is unknown if the victims were part of the game. The shooting occurred outside of the rec center. 

Officers with the MPD tweeted around 8:30 p.m. that they were searching for a person wearing black pants and a blue surgical mask. During a press conference Chief Pamela Smith said that was not accurate and they do not have a suspect description at this time.

WUSA9 spoke to a neighbor who lives across the street and woke up to what she describes as a dozen gunshots. She said the rec center is a place where people come and expect to be protected. 

"This is supposed to be a safe space. This is the option for people to come when they have nothing else to do and gather and have fun and not think about anything else in life but enjoying recreational activities," she said, "...and a 14-year old lost his life here today."

"How are people going to feel safe sending their kids here?" she asked. 

Chief Smith gave her condolences to the family of the victims.

"This incident happened at a rec center, where young people should be able to come and enjoy themselves. We will find the suspects and hold them accountable." she continued "I have nieces and I have nephews, and it breaks my heart."

Anyone who knows anything about this shooting is asked to call MPD. 

RELATED: Police arrest man connected to deadly park shooting in Southeast

RELATED: "Be a man, turn yourself in" | Police search for second suspect in shooting death of 6-year-old boy at Fourth of July celebration

Before You Leave, Check This Out