WASHINGTON, D.C. — Community Mourns the Loss of Decordre Chiles Following Fatal Northeast D.C. Shooting

The Washington, D.C. community is in mourning following the tragic and untimely death of 33-year-old Decordre Chiles, who was found fatally shot inside his home in Northeast D.C. early Sunday morning. His passing marks yet another painful chapter in the ongoing struggle against gun violence in the nation’s capital and has left family, friends, and neighbors reeling with grief and unanswered questions.

According to the Metropolitan Police Department, officers were dispatched to the 1000 block of 16th Street NE around 2:00 a.m. on June 15, 2025, after receiving reports of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered Chiles inside his residence, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the efforts of emergency responders, Chiles was pronounced dead at the scene. The solemn reality of his sudden death quickly spread across his neighborhood and beyond.

Decordre Chiles, a resident of Oxon Hill, Maryland, was known to many as a dedicated family man, a loyal friend, and someone who had overcome personal challenges to better himself and those around him. His death has come as a shocking blow to those who knew him not just as a name in a headline, but as a vibrant presence with a warm smile and a generous heart.

Family members described Chiles as a man who “loved deeply and lived with purpose,” someone who always tried to lift others up, even as he quietly bore his own burdens. He was a protective older brother, a supportive son, and a friend who could be counted on no matter the hour.

“He was the type of person who would give you his last dollar,” said one childhood friend. “Decordre had been through a lot in life, but he never let it harden him. He stayed kind. He stayed hopeful. And he never turned his back on anyone he cared about.”

What makes the tragedy even more painful is the lack of clarity surrounding his death. The motive for the shooting remains unknown, and authorities have yet to name a suspect or make any arrests. The Metropolitan Police Department has announced that the investigation is ongoing and is urging the public to come forward with any information that may assist in bringing those responsible to justice.

A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Community members with tips are encouraged to call 202-727-9099 or submit anonymous messages by texting 50411.

In the wake of the shooting, neighbors gathered outside the residence where Chiles was found to light candles, share prayers, and remember a man whose life, though cut short, touched many. A makeshift memorial of flowers, notes, and photos now stands as a solemn tribute to a life lost too soon.

Activists and community leaders are once again sounding the alarm on the toll that senseless violence continues to take on D.C. neighborhoods. Local clergy have called for healing circles and conversations around safety, mental health, and the future of youth in the area—many of whom looked up to Decordre as a mentor figure.

“He was a man who turned his pain into purpose,” said one local pastor who had worked with Chiles through a community outreach program. “We can’t let his death be just another statistic. We owe him justice, and we owe our communities peace.”

A candlelight vigil is being planned in his honor later this week in both Northeast D.C. and Oxon Hill, where Chiles spent much of his life. Family members are also working to establish a memorial fund in his name to support efforts that combat community violence and help at-risk youth find positive alternatives.

Decordre Chiles is survived by his mother, two brothers, a teenage nephew he helped raise, and a wide network of family, friends, and neighbors who now carry the sorrow of his absence but also the strength of his memory.

As the investigation continues, those who knew and loved Decordre hold tightly to the hope that justice will be served—and that the kindness, loyalty, and resilience he exemplified will never be forgotten.

Rest in peace, Decordre. You were taken too soon, but your story, your spirit, and your impact live on.