‘SERIOUS CRIME’: Mother of Slain Congressional Intern Pleads for Justice, Urges D.C. Leadership to Act

Washington, D.C. — In a devastating turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the nation’s capital, the mother of a 23-year-old congressional intern who was gunned down in a senseless act of violence is making an emotional plea for justice and accountability. Her son, a bright young man with aspirations of serving his country through public service, was killed in Washington, D.C., just blocks from Capitol Hill — a chilling reminder that violent crime does not discriminate, even against those dedicated to building a better future.

The victim, whose name is being withheld at the request of the family for privacy reasons, had been working tirelessly in the office of a U.S. Representative, dedicating his summer to learning the ins and outs of policymaking, community engagement, and civic leadership. His life was cut short when he was shot during what police are calling a “targeted yet unexplained attack” late last week. The tragedy unfolded in the heart of the city, adding to a growing concern about escalating violence in urban areas, especially in places meant to represent safety, governance, and the American democratic process.

Standing on the steps outside a packed community vigil held in his honor, the young man’s mother, grief-stricken yet fiercely determined, addressed the crowd and news cameras with a plea that has since echoed throughout the nation.

“My son came to Washington to make a difference. He came here to learn, to serve, to give. And now, he’s gone — stolen from me, from his future, and from this country. I am begging the D.C. Police Department to find who did this. I am begging the mayor to stop making excuses and start taking action. Get serious about the crime in this city. Get serious about protecting our children.”

Her powerful words were laced with heartbreak, but also outrage — not just at the senseless killing of her son, but at what she sees as a pattern of inaction from city leadership. She called on Mayor Muriel Bowser and other city officials to address what she described as a public safety crisis, criticizing “soft-on-crime” policies and the slow pace of investigations into violent offenses.

“We cannot keep pretending that policy debates are just political games. People are dying. My son is dead. I don’t want another mother to have to feel this pain. Fix the system before more lives are lost,” she said.

Police have confirmed that they are actively investigating the shooting and are pursuing multiple leads. According to a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police Department, surveillance footage from nearby buildings is being reviewed, and they are urging anyone with information to come forward.

So far, no arrests have been made, and details remain limited.

The young intern’s death comes amid a troubling surge in violent crime across Washington, D.C., where shootings and homicides have risen dramatically over the past year. Despite various initiatives aimed at curbing violence — including community outreach programs, policing reforms, and increased funding for public safety — many residents say they still feel unsafe in their neighborhoods.

Community leaders, including several members of Congress who knew the young man personally, have joined the call for justice. “He was a kind soul, a passionate believer in democracy, and a tireless advocate for those without a voice,” said one congressional staffer who worked alongside the intern. “This city has lost someone who was destined for greatness.”

A memorial of flowers, handwritten notes, and candles continues to grow near the site of the shooting. Messages like “We will carry your torch,” and “Justice for our fallen brother” reflect the anguish and frustration of a city grappling with grief — and demanding answers.

The mother’s impassioned plea is now being shared widely across social media, with many Americans echoing her sentiment that stronger, swifter action must be taken to protect citizens and hold violent offenders accountable. Her voice, breaking through unimaginable sorrow, has become a rallying cry for change.

“We honor my son not by just remembering his smile or his ambition — but by making sure his death was not in vain. Washington must do better. America must do better. I will not stop until justice is served.”

As the investigation continues, the family asks for privacy and prayers. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with funeral costs and to establish a scholarship in the intern’s name — a legacy that will carry his hopes forward, even as his voice has been tragically silenced.