Unraveling the Northwest D.C. Shooting: Second Arrest Made in Diamonte Lewis Case

A Tragic Night on U Street

In the early hours of October 21, 2023, tragedy struck the vibrant neighborhood of Northwest D.C. when 24-year-old Diamonte Lewis lost his life in a fatal shooting. The incident unfolded in the 900 block of U Street, Northwest, sending shockwaves through the community and prompting an intense investigation by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

Swift Justice: Arrest of a 16-Year-Old Suspect

In the aftermath of the shooting, the MPD wasted no time in their pursuit of justice. Days later, they released a video featuring the alleged gunman, urging the public to come forward with any information that could help identify the perpetrator. The breakthrough came in December 2023 when 16-year-old Ashton Inabinet, hailing from Alexandria, Virginia, was arrested in connection to the deadly shooting. Inabinet faced charges of second-degree murder while armed, casting a spotlight on the severity of the crime committed. However, the arrest was not without controversy, as it was revealed that Fairfax County Police had tipped Inabinet off about the investigation a week prior, resulting in the teenager being prohibited from attending school. This revelation raised questions about the integrity of the investigation and the potential impact on the case.

A Second Suspect Emerges

Months later, the investigation took an unexpected turn with the announcement of a second arrest in connection to Diamonte Lewis’ death. Na’eem Butler, a 20-year-old resident of Herndon, Virginia, was apprehended by the MPD Fugitive Unit in collaboration with the United States Marshals Service. Butler, who had been extradited from State College, Pennsylvania, now faces charges of second-degree murder while armed. The emergence of a second suspect adds complexity to the case, leaving the community questioning the motives and circumstances surrounding the tragic event. The authorities have remained tight-lipped about any possible motive or the events leading up to the deadly shooting, leaving the public hungry for answers.

Unanswered Questions and a Fight’s Alleged Connection

As the investigation unfolds, many questions remain unanswered. The MPD has not released any official information regarding the motive behind the shooting or the specifics of what transpired in the moments leading up to Diamonte Lewis’ death. However, a witness interview mentioned in the December 2023 court documents suggests that a fight may have preceded the fatal incident. The revelation of a potential altercation leading to the shooting raises further inquiries about the circumstances that led to such a tragic outcome. The community, still grappling with the loss of a young life, seeks closure and justice for Diamonte Lewis. In conclusion, the arrest of a second suspect in the shooting death of Diamonte Lewis brings both hope and uncertainty. As the legal proceedings unfold, the community awaits answers to the lingering questions, hoping for justice to be served in this tragic case that has left an indelible mark on Northwest D.C.