A senseless act of violence shook the Westminster neighborhood in Washington DC on June 8, 2023, when 62-year-old Lasanta Qumar McGill was struck and killed by a stray bullet. The shooter, Demarcus Barnett, 20, of Washington, D.C., pleaded guilty to a charge of voluntary manslaughter while armed on [no date given].
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Barnett admitted to chasing after two individuals who robbed him and firing wildly down the sidewalk, striking and killing McGill, an innocent bystander. Barnett will be sentenced on October 27, 2023, by Judge Maribeth Raffinan.
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and the U.S. Attorney’s Office commended the work of those investigating the case, which led to Barnett’s guilty plea.
Demarcus Barnett, 20, of Washington, D.C., will face the consequences of his actions in court. He admitted to causing the death of Lasanta Qumar McGill, a 62-year-old man who was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.
The case serves as a tragic reminder of the devastating effects of gun violence in our community. It is a stark reminder that the actions of one individual can have far-reaching consequences.
Barnett’s sentence has yet to be determined, but one thing is certain: justice will be served. The people of Washington DC deserve to feel safe in their neighborhoods, and it is up to us to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates on Barnett’s sentencing and any additional developments.
Related Federal Cases
- Stanley Brown, Voluntary Manslaughter While Armed, District of Columbia 2020 · Wyoming
- Eugene Williams, Voluntary Manslaughter while Armed with a Firearm, District of Columbia 2022 · Alabama
- Jason Michael Lewis, Second-Degree Murder While Armed, District of Columbia 2023 · District of Columbia
- Jason Michael Lewis, Second-Degree Murder While Armed, District of Columbia 2023 · Wyoming
- Antwain Ulmer, First Degree Murder While Armed, District of Columbia 2024 · District of Columbia
Key Facts
- State: Washington DC
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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