The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has launched an $50,000 reward program for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Naqwan Antonio Lucas, 18, a suspect in the premeditated murder of a Capitol Hill intern in Washington, D.C. The victim, 21-year-old Tarpinian-Jachym, was an intern for Rep. Ron Estes, R-Kan., and was fatally shot on June 30. The MPD released the reward as part of an ongoing investigation into the crime, which has drawn significant public attention.
Two 17-year-old suspects, Kelvin Thomas, of Southeast, D.C., and Jailen Lucas, of Northwest, D.C., were also arrested and charged as adults with premeditated first-degree murder while armed. Both have prior violent criminal records in family court, according to U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro. Despite the arrests, the search for Naqwan Lucas continues, as he remains at large and is wanted on a D.C. Superior Court arrest warrant for the murder.
The shooting occurred just one mile from the White House, highlighting the gravity of the incident in a highly visible location. An adult woman and a 16-year-old boy were also injured in the attack, according to police. These victims are currently recovering, though no further details on their condition have been released. The MPD has emphasized the seriousness of the case, with officials stating that if the suspects are convicted, they will face severe justice.
Attorney General Pam Bondi acknowledged the severity of the crime, expressing hope that the reward program would bring some solace to the victim’s family. The family of Tarpinian-Jachym was honored by the House of Representatives in July with a moment of silence, as Rep. Estes described him as a ‘dedicated and thoughtful and kind person who loved our country.’ This tribute underscored the impact of the loss on the national political community.
The case has also raised questions about the response to violent crimes in Washington, D.C. The mother of the slain intern has criticized the D.C. Council for treating such incidents with a lack of seriousness, suggesting that the city’s approach to violent crime bears further scrutiny. Meanwhile, the FBI and U.S. Marshals Service have joined the reward effort, offering an additional $15,000 and $10,000 respectively, bringing the total reward to $50,000 for the apprehension of Naqwan Lucas.
While the identities of the suspects have sparked media attention, the police caution against taking any action against Naqwan Lucas and advise the public to call the Department of Public Safety at 202-727-9099 or submit a tip via text to the TEXT TIP LINE at 50411. The MPD has confirmed that the suspect has no known prior criminal record, though the investigation is ongoing. As the search for Lucas continues, the city remains focused on ensuring justice for the victim and his family.