A tragic incident in Washington, D.C., has left a young mother dead and a community in shock. Police say a man is now in custody after allegedly shooting the woman in an alley shortly after they left together.
Woman Found Dead in Alleyway
In Washington, D.C., 25-year-old Jamillah Gales was found unresponsive in a rear alley on the 600 block of Kenyon Street.
According to the Metropolitan Police Department, officers responded around 10:52 p.m. to reports of a shooting. When they arrived, they found Gales with gunshot wounds. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Suspect Arrested and Charged
Police have arrested Hakeem Jones, 28, in connection with the case.
He has been charged with:
- Second-degree murder while armed
Authorities confirmed that he is currently being held without bond.
Child Found Safe After Alert
Before the shooting, Gales had been with her 2-year-old son. After she was found, police issued an alert to locate the child.
Thankfully, the child was later found safe inside a nearby residence.
What Investigators Found
During the investigation, police learned that:
- Gales and Jones had left a residence together, saying they were going to a store
- A witness was asked to watch the child
- About an hour later, Jones returned alone
Surveillance footage reportedly shows the two entering an alley. Moments later, the suspect was seen taking a shooting stance and firing.
Authorities say Gales was shot twice in the back.
Investigation Still Ongoing
Police are still working to understand the motive behind the shooting. Another individual found at the residence was questioned but is not believed to be involved.
Jones is expected to appear in court on May 6.
Family Grieves the Loss
Gales’ family has expressed deep sorrow over her sudden death. They described her as a loving and devoted mother whose life revolved around her young son.
The loss has been especially painful for the child, who now has to grow up without his mother.
