6pm Shots Fired reported in Petworth

8th and Upshur Street, NW

Full release from MPD:

“Agents from the Metropolitan Police Department’s (MPD) Internal Affairs Bureau are investigating an officer involved shooting that occurred on Thursday, February 13, 2020, in the 700 block of Varnum Street, Northwest.

At approximately 5:45 pm, members of the Fourth District responded to the area of the 500 block of Varnum Street, Northwest, for the report of the sounds of gunshots. While canvassing the area the officers encountered an adult male in the rear of the 4200 block of 7th Street, Northwest, who was armed with a handgun. The suspect pointed the handgun at the officers and they discharged their weapons at him. The suspect fled the location and officers pursued the suspect on foot. During the foot pursuit there was an exchange of gunfire between the suspect and the officers. The suspect continued to flee into the area of the 700 block of Varnum Street, Northwest. There was another exchange of gunfire between the suspect and the officers. The suspect was struck multiple times and was transported to an area hospital for treatment of his injuries, where he remains in critical condition. Additionally, one officer sustained a non-life threatening injury and was treated at a local hospital.

Arrested in this case is 36 year-old Douglas Maiden, of Northwest, DC. He has been charged with Assault on a Police Officer while Armed and Carrying a Pistol Without a License.

This case remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact MPD at (202) 727-9099.”

The officers involved have been placed on administrative leave, pursuant to MPD policy. Officers activated their body worn cameras. That footage is currently under review.

UPDATE reader report: “Shooting in the alley. Apparently there was a shooting reported to the police. Upon arrival, suspect started shooting at the police. Suspect been shot but no further info.”

Reader report: “About 5 shots fired at 6pm. Police here within 1 minute. Another 20ish shots fired a few minutes later. Upshur and 7th NW”

Readers now reporting:

“MPD has area on Varnum from at least Illinois to 7th blocked off, huge police response. Heard dozen+ shots at 6:00pm”

“I heard about 5-6 shots near New Hampshire before police response. I heard a big cluster of shots about 5 minutes later. Still sirens and choppers circling. It sounds ongoing.”

“I also see this, chopper is circling around with a searchlight pointed at Upshur, possibly close to Timber, etc?”

“Easily 15 cop cars”

“Was just walking my dog in the area, looks like they’re focusing on an alley just north of Upshur on 7th St”