Washington, DC (10/26/2025) – Five people were taken to the hospital after a shooting near Howard University Friday night during the school’s homecoming festivities, according to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Police responded to reports of gunfire in the 600 block of Howard Place NW shortly before 8:30 p.m. When officers arrived, they found three men, one woman, and a 13-year-old boy suffering from non-life-threatening gunshot wounds. DC Fire and EMS transported all five victims to a local hospital for treatment.
MPD confirmed that none of the victims are Howard University students, though one is a student at Morgan State University. The two institutions are scheduled to face each other in Saturday’s homecoming football game.
Officers took two individuals into custody and recovered three firearms at the scene. One of the suspects attempted to flee but was apprehended in a McDonald’s parking lot nearby. As of Saturday morning, police have not publicly identified those detained.
In a late-night press conference, DC Police Chief Pamela A. Smith addressed the media, assuring the community that law enforcement will remain highly visible throughout the weekend.
“What I will say tonight is that MPD and our partners will remain and have a robust presence tomorrow in this area with respect to Howard’s homecoming, the parade, and the Yard Fest, as well as the Howard Homecoming game,” Chief Smith said. “We will have an enhanced presence in this area, which is what we plan for to begin with. We will ensure that we have a safe event tomorrow.”
Seperate Statement
In a separate statement, Howard University’s Office of University Communications emphasized that the shooting was not affiliated with the university and that no students, faculty, or staff were involved.
“HUPD [Howard University Police Department] has implemented enhanced security measures throughout the weekend, including an increased presence of university security and personnel and local law enforcement agencies on and around campus to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all,” the university said.
The statement went on to thank both departments: “The University appreciates the swift and coordinated response of MPD and HUPD officers, whose actions helped protect the safety of our community.”
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident as Howard’s homecoming events proceed under tightened security.
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