WASHINGTON, D.C. — A New Year’s Day assault in the 800 block of H Street has led to the arrest of a 44-year-old man, with police investigating the incident as a possible hate crime.
The suspect, identified as Shawn Radford, allegedly approached the victim around 11:25 p.m., asking for a cigarette. When the victim said he didn’t have one, Radford reportedly responded with racial slurs before attacking the victim and fleeing the scene.
Officers later located and arrested Radford, charging him with simple assault and threats to do bodily harm. The Metropolitan Police Department confirmed they are investigating the assault for potential hate or bias motivations.
No further details about the victim or the suspect’s actions have been released at this time, as the case remains under investigation.
An investigation continues as DC police probe the assault for possible hate-based motivations.