A 17-year-old boy was fatally shot in broad daylight last week, sparking fresh concerns about youth violence and public safety in the nation’s capital. The victim, identified as Angel Ernesto Dominquez, was found with multiple gunshot wounds on the 900 block of Florida Avenue NW around 3:07 p.m. on May 29, 2025.
According to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), officers from the Third District responded to reports of a shooting and found Dominquez lying unconscious and unresponsive on the sidewalk. He was quickly transported by D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have since opened a homicide investigation and are calling on the public for help in identifying the suspect or suspects involved. So far, no arrests have been made, and no suspect descriptions have been released by MPD.
To support the investigation, the District of Columbia is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for any information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
Residents or witnesses with information are urged to call the Metropolitan Police Department at (202) 727-9099, or text tips anonymously to 50411.
The case number and details can also be submitted through MPD’s online anonymous tip submission platform.
A Community on Edge
This incident was one of several violent events that occurred within a short timeframe in D.C. On the same afternoon, another shooting was reported near the Waterfront Metro station, leaving one man injured. While the two incidents do not appear to be connected, they’ve heightened concerns about public safety—particularly during daytime hours when residents feel most vulnerable.
In recent years, D.C. has struggled with rising gun violence, and youth victims have been a tragic constant. Data from the Office of Gun Violence Prevention in Washington, D.C., shows a troubling uptick in youth-related shootings in high-density neighborhoods such as Shaw, Columbia Heights, and U Street.
Local leaders have called for immediate interventions, including increased police presence, more community outreach, and support programs aimed at keeping teens away from dangerous situations.
“We can’t keep losing our kids,” said one youth counselor at a nearby recreation center. “Angel’s life mattered. Every life lost to a gun is one too many.”
Witness Accounts and Security Footage
Several residents in the neighborhood reported hearing gunshots but did not witness the shooter. Some local businesses along Florida Avenue NW are assisting the investigation by providing access to their security footage. MPD has yet to confirm whether surveillance video has revealed any significant leads.
Police believe the suspect may have fled on foot, and they are canvassing surrounding areas for additional video evidence and eyewitnesses.
Anyone who was in the area between 3:00 and 3:30 p.m. on May 29 is strongly encouraged to come forward, even if they think the information they hold may be minor. Investigators say that small details—like noticing a person running, discarding clothing, or acting suspicious—can be crucial to solving cases like these.
Citywide Response and Grief
As news of Dominquez’s death spread, community groups began organizing vigils and support sessions for his friends and family. He was remembered by peers as a soft-spoken, friendly teen who loved music and was hoping to enroll in trade school later this year.
The D.C. chapter of Mothers of Lost Sons, an organization supporting families affected by gun violence, released a statement urging the public to honor Angel by demanding stronger safety reforms.
Meanwhile, MPD has emphasized its commitment to solving this case and preventing further violence.
What You Can Do
In addition to calling the MPD tip line, residents are encouraged to:
- Share information on social media using appropriate channels
- Encourage local businesses with security footage to review their archives
- Reach out to community organizations to participate in youth outreach efforts