MPD 7D | Homicide: 3900 Block of 4th Street, SE

Tuesday, June 6, 2023

Detectives from the Metropolitan Police Department's Arson Task Force, which includes Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, are investigating a homicide that occurred on Monday, May 29, 2023, in the 3900 block of 4th Street, Southeast.

At approximately 6:18 pm, Seventh District officers responded to the listed location for the report of an assault with a person on fire. Upon arrival officers, located an adult male and female victim suffering from thermal injuries which were sustained while they were inside of a vehicle. The adult male victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries. The adult female victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Additionally, there were two juveniles that sustained no injuries.

The detectives’ investigation revealed the suspect approached the parked and occupied vehicle, doused it with a flammable liquid and then set it on fire. The suspect was apprehended on the scene by responding officers.

On Thursday, June 1, 2023, the adult male victim succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined that the cause of death was complications from thermal injuries and the manner was ruled a homicide.

The decedent has been identified as 64-year-old Derek Hamilton, of Southeast, DC.

Previously on Thursday, May 29, 2023, 49-year-old female, of Southeast, DC, was arrested and charged with Assault with Intent to Kill. The detectives’ investigation revealed that this offense was the result of a dispute and the victims and suspect are known to each other.

The Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Branch is currently working with the US Attorney’s Office to pursue upgraded charges against the suspect in this case.