WASHINGTON — A 16-year-old boy remains hospitalized with spinal injuries following a shooting that claimed the life of Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a congressional intern. Tarpinian-Jachym, 21, was fatally shot near the Walter E. Reed Convention Center on Monday while attending his internship for Representative Ron Estes of Kansas. Despite immediate medical attention, he succumbed to his injuries a day later.
Police Chief Pamela Smith indicated that the young boy may have been affiliated with one of the groups involved in the altercation. Smith described the incident as a tragedy for the community, emphasizing the toll such violence takes on the city.
In addition to Tarpinian-Jachym and the teenager, a woman was also injured in the shooting and is currently stable, according to officials. Authorities believe that the teenage victim may have insights into the circumstances surrounding the incident. He is being treated in the hospital while detectives continue their investigation.
Smith noted that the D.C. police, in collaboration with the FBI, are actively pursuing leads. A black Acura, identified as the vehicle used by the suspects, has been located. Law enforcement has obtained a blurry video from the scene, which they hope to enhance to gather clearer images of the suspect or suspects involved.
“We are working with the FBI to retrieve better quality footage,” Smith stated at a press conference. The hope is to make the enhanced video available to the public in an effort to generate tips and information.
Detectives are still searching for any individuals who may have witnessed the shooting. Smith urged anyone with information to step forward, highlighting the crucial role the community can play in assisting investigations.
“This is something we never want to see happen in our city,” she said, reinforcing the need for collective vigilance in the face of violence.
As the investigation unfolds, community leaders are calling for dialogue on safety and crime prevention, advocating for measures to curb violence in the District of Columbia.