Teenager Arrested for Fatally Shooting 14-Year-Old Niko Estep in Washington, D.C.’s Columbia Heights Neighborhood

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Teenager Arrested and Charged with Murder in Columbia Heights Shooting

A tragic incident unfolded in the Columbia Heights neighborhood of Washington, D.C., earlier this month when a 14-year-old youth was fatally shot. The details of the incident were recently made public after the arrest of a 17-year-old suspect, Lorenzo Thompson, who has been charged as an adult with second-degree murder while armed.

According to an arrest warrant filed by the police in D.C. Superior Court, the shooting took place on the night of November 3 near the intersection of Fairmont and 14th streets NW. The victim, identified as Niko Estep, was riding a scooter with a group of friends when the incident occurred. Another teenager was also injured in the shooting.

Eyewitnesses reported that the suspect, Thompson, opened fire on the group as they passed by a gas station. It is believed that Niko was specifically targeted in the attack. Shockingly, Thompson bragged about the killing on social media three days later. In an Instagram Live video, he can be heard saying, “Got him,” while referring to Niko by his nickname, “Y.B.” The warrant states that Thompson showed no remorse during the broadcast and appeared to be celebrating with others.

The arrest of Thompson sheds light on the increasing crime crisis among youth in the District. Public safety officials have expressed concern about the rising number of children and teenagers being involved in violent offenses, including carjacking. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and police are still investigating the incident.

Surveillance footage captured Thompson at a gas station convenience store shortly before the shooting. In the video, he can be seen reaching under his jacket and then brandishing a gun. The footage also shows Thompson firing multiple rounds in a matter of seconds, hitting Niko and another person on scooters. A woman with red braids and a white coat was seen standing behind the shooter.

After the shooting, Thompson fled the scene and ran in the direction of University Place. The woman with the red braids was seen getting on a scooter and riding after him. Police believe she may have been an accomplice in the crime. Detectives reviewing the surveillance footage were able to identify Thompson and his mother, who is the woman with the red braids.

A subsequent search of Thompson’s apartment led to the discovery of a 9mm gun magazine in his bedroom backpack. However, the firearm itself has not been located yet. Thompson’s mother has not been reachable for comment.

Thompson appeared before a D.C. Superior Court judge, who ordered him to be detained. A hearing has been scheduled for November 16. The court-appointed attorney listed for Thompson has not responded to requests for comment. It is worth noting that Thompson’s first name is also spelled as Lorinzo in court documents.

The community is mourning the loss of Niko Estep, a young life cut short due to senseless violence. As the investigation continues, authorities are determined to bring justice to his family and hold those responsible accountable for their actions..