WASHINGTON, DC — A New Year’s Day attack in Northwest DC that left a victim hospitalized is being investigated as a possible hate crime, and police are searching for the suspect responsible.
The incident happened around 2:00 a.m. on Monday in the 1700 block of Florida Avenue NW. According to reports, the suspect used a hateful slur before attacking the victim and fleeing the scene. DC Fire and EMS transported the victim to a nearby hospital for treatment of significant injuries.
Photos of the suspect have been released, and the Metropolitan Police Department is asking for public assistance to identify the individual. Anyone with information is urged to contact police at (202) 727-9099 or text tips to 50411. A reward of up to $1,000 is being offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
Investigators are treating the assault as potentially motivated by hate or bias, a designation that could change as the investigation continues. The Special Liaison Branch is assisting with the case.