WASHINGTON – The Metropolitan Police Department and officials across the region are remembering a police officer who died Wednesday after being shot with a gun he was trying to retrieve from a sewer.
The officer, Wayne David, had served the department for over 25 years, said Executive Assistant Chief Jeffery Carroll. “Wayne is a true hero for the District of Columbia and today he gave his life to serve the visitors and residents here,” Carroll said Wednesday. “We will never forget that.”
At around 5:40 p.m., police said a person in northeast DC exited a suspicious vehicle, fled on foot, and jumped onto Interstate 295. The suspect threw a gun into a sewer and then fled on a motorcycle.
As officers attempted to retrieve the weapon, a shot was accidentally fired, striking Officer David. Authorities are currently searching for the suspect who discarded the weapon.
Officials in the Washington area mourn the death of a police officer who was killed when a shot went off from the weapon he was trying to retrieve
Here’s what officials and departments across the region are saying about Officer David:
DC Police Chief Pamela A. Smith
“Our hearts are heavy this evening following the tragic loss of one of our own.
Investigator Wayne David, a veteran MPD officer, lost his life in the line of duty. There are few words to express the pain and suffering that Officer David’s family and the entire MPD are feeling right now.
Investigator David was the epitome of a great officer. He was a dedicated and highly valued member of the department and his loss is a tremendous loss for all of us.
For more than 25 years, Investigator David dedicated his life to protecting and securing the District of Columbia. He served with passion and honor and enjoyed the utmost respect from his colleagues.
I will be eternally grateful to Investigator David for his service to the Metropolitan Police Department and will never forget his life.”
Pamela A. Smith
Police Chief
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DC Police Union
“Earlier today, one of our members, a 25-year veteran, was pursuing an armed suspect on foot in the area of Quarles St NE and 295. The suspect threw his handgun into a sewer and was able to get away.
As the officer attempted to retrieve the gun from the drain, a shot was fired and the bullet struck the officer in the head. He was taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
Unfortunately, despite the amazing doctors and nurses, all life-saving efforts were unsuccessful and the officer passed away. Please pray for his family and colleagues. We are all devastated by this incredible loss.”
DC Mayor Muriel Bowser
“This evening, a long-time officer in our MPD family suffered a gunshot wound in a tragic accident while arriving on the scene attempting to recover a firearm. We pray for his recovery and for his fellow MPD officers.
While preliminary information indicates the shooting was the result of a tragic accident, this is a horrific reminder of the dangers our officers face every day. We are grateful for their service.”
OPINION:
“Tonight, a beloved police officer lost his life in the line of duty. Detective Wayne David served with the Metropolitan Police Department for 25 years. A native of Washington, D.C., he was a mentor to many officers. He helped remove hundreds of guns from our streets, and just a few years ago he received the MPD Ribbon of Valor. He was not only a police officer, but a good man – and a great father – who many people loved and looked up to.
The impact of guns on our community is unbearable. It is difficult to accept that a man who came to work to protect our city will not be returning home. Tonight, I pray for Investigator David’s family and loved ones, and I pray for the officers who put themselves in harm’s way every day to protect DC.”
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Council Member Brooke Pinto
Tonight we lost an extraordinary 25-year veteran of the @DCPoliceDept, Wayne David, who worked every day to get guns off our streets and prevent violence. My heart goes out to Officer David’s family and colleagues. He is a true hero.
Our officers are on site every day to ensure our safety. Thank you.
Council Member Vincent C. Gray
“Today in Precinct 7, a 25-year veteran of the Metropolitan Police Department lost his life in the line of duty,” Gray said.
“I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family of Investigator Wayne David and his colleagues. There are no words to adequately comfort those who loved Investigator David. What we can do is give them our best and pray for them.”
“The brave men and women of the Metropolitan Police Department put themselves in danger every day to protect our communities. Through their many actions, they earn our respect and support,” Gray said.
“Investigator David was dedicated to public safety and the upholding of the law. He is no longer here to receive our thanks, but we can honor Investigator David by expressing our appreciation for the members of the Metropolitan Police Department and the sacrifices they and their families make.”
Officials in the Washington area mourn the death of a police officer who was killed when a shot went off from the weapon he was trying to retrieve
Anne Arundel County Police Department
“The Anne Arundel County Police Department would like to extend our deepest condolences to the men and women of the Metropolitan Police Department on the loss of Investigator David. Our thoughts are with all of his family during this incredibly difficult time.”
Metro CEO Randy Clarke
On behalf of the entire @wmata and @MetroTransitPD team, we extend our condolences to the family and friends of @DCPoliceDept Officer Wayne David, who was tragically killed in the line of duty. This sad news highlights the sacrifice our first responders make for our community.
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