28-Year-Old Daquane Johnson Fatally Shot in Northeast D.C. as Gun Violence Continues to Grip the Capital
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A somber and chilling moment unfolded early Saturday morning in the nation’s capital, as yet another life was senselessly lost to gun violence. Authorities have confirmed that the victim was 28-year-old Daquane Johnson, a resident of Northeast Washington, D.C., whose untimely death has left family, friends, and community members heartbroken and searching for answers.
The shooting occurred just after 2 a.m. on July 6, 2025, in the 1100 block of 21st Street NE. Residents were jolted awake by the sound of gunfire, and several frantic 911 calls quickly brought a large police presence to the area. Upon arrival, officers with the Metropolitan Police Department found Johnson suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, lying on the sidewalk in critical condition.
Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures at the scene, and Johnson was transported to a nearby hospital. Despite the valiant efforts of doctors and paramedics, he was later pronounced dead.
Investigators have since launched a full-scale homicide investigation. While details surrounding the motive or potential suspects have not yet been released, authorities say they are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby buildings and speaking with witnesses who may have heard or seen anything unusual in the moments leading up to the shooting.
Johnson’s death has sent shockwaves through the local community. Known for his warm smile, generous spirit, and deep love for his family, Daquane was a beloved son, friend, and neighbor. His loved ones describe him as someone who brought joy to every room he entered — a young man full of potential whose life was tragically cut short.
Community members gathered later that evening for a vigil at the site of the shooting, lighting candles and releasing balloons in his memory. Tearful family members spoke of Daquane’s dreams and the future he had been building. “He had so much ahead of him,” one relative said. “This shouldn’t be happening. We’re tired of losing our loved ones to this violence.”
Gun violence continues to plague the District and many other cities across the United States, prompting renewed calls for action from both residents and community leaders. Daquane Johnson’s death marks yet another devastating reminder of the urgent need for meaningful solutions to address the ongoing epidemic.
Police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Homicide Branch of the Metropolitan Police Department or submit tips anonymously through the department’s tip line.
As the investigation continues, Daquane Johnson’s family prepares to lay him to rest, forever changed by a moment of violence that took away a beloved young man. The community, too, mourns — not only for Daquane, but for the countless others whose stories have ended far too soon.