NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. (WUSA9) — A shooting early Thursday at a restaurant in the landmark National Harbor is the first incident of its kind in the 10-years since the waterfront attraction opened, according to Angela Sweeney, spokesman for the Peterson Companies which operates the development.
Prince George's County police confirm the major crime rate at National Harbor has been virtually non-existent until Thursday's shooting.
The complex of attractions, restaurants, shops and hotels was crowded with visitors Thursday on the eve of Easter weekend.
A couple from Waldorf, Md. were immediately arrested at a nearby hotel and charged after the gunfire near the doorway of the Cadillac Ranch restaurant on Fleet Street at 12:40 am Thursday.
Artis Montana, 21, has been charged with attempted murder and Tony Irene Marie Smith, 19, was accused of being an accomplice after the incident.
Two restaurant employees who were trying to escort the gunman out after a disputed bar tab suffered non-life threatening injuries police said.
The restaurant remained closed Thursday. Prince George's County police maintained a visible presence in the area throughout the day.
National Harbor attracts as many as 12-million visitors a year to a waterfront complex of attractions, restaurants, shops, hotels and the Gaylord National convention center.
The development marks its 10-year anniversary on Sunday.
Prince George's County police have a substation at National Harbor with 20 officers assigned. An additional private security force is also on duty at all times.
Overall, the violent crime rate in Prince George's County has plummeted 50% in the past 7 years.
