WASHINGTON (7News) — Authorities and DMV officials are sending their condolences to the City of Washington after a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) investigator was killed while attempting to recover a weapon from a sewer.
Wayne David, who had been with the MPD for over two decades, died when a gun he was trying to recover near Interstate 295 accidentally went off, the agency said. It happened while police were pursuing a suspect who was seen in a suspicious vehicle.
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DC Mayor Muriel Bowser:
Tonight, a long-time officer in our MPD family suffered a gunshot wound in a tragic accident while arriving on the scene and attempting to recover a firearm. We pray for his recovery and for his fellow MPD officers.
While preliminary information indicates the shooting was the result of a tragic accident, this is a horrific reminder of the dangers our officers face every day. We are grateful for their service.
WMATA General Manager Randy Clarke:
On behalf of the entire WMATA and Metro Transit Police Department team, we would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of (MPD) Officer Wayne David, who was tragically killed in the line of duty. This sad news underscores the sacrifice our first responders make for our community.
DC Fire and Rescue Department:
The DC Fire and EMS Department joins our brothers and sisters at (MPD) in mourning the loss of Officer Wayne David. Our sincere condolences go out to his family, friends, and all members of the department.
Alexandria Sheriff’s Office:
“Sheriff Casey and members of the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of @DCPoliceDept Investigator Wayne David. We are heartbroken for his family and all who had the honor of serving with him.”
Anne Arundel County Police Department:
The Anne Arundel County Police Department would like to extend our deepest condolences to the men and women of the Metropolitan Police Department on the loss of Investigator David. Our thoughts are with all of his family during this incredibly difficult time.
Prince George’s County Police Department:
The PGPD family joins you in mourning the loss of Detective David. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and the entire Metropolitan Police Department. His sacrifice will not be forgotten.
DC Council Member Vincent Gray:
“Today in Precinct 7, a 25-year veteran of the Metropolitan Police Department lost his life in the line of duty,” Gray said. “I want to express my deepest condolences to the family of Detective Wayne David and his colleagues. There are no words to adequately comfort those who loved Detective David. What we can do is give him our best and pray for him.”
“The brave men and women of the Metropolitan Police Department put themselves in harm’s way every day to protect our communities. They deserve our respect and support through many actions,” Gray said. “Investigator David is dedicated to public safety and upholding the law.”
He is no longer here to receive our thanks, but we can honor Investigator David by expressing our appreciation for the members of the Metropolitan Police Department and the sacrifices they and their families make.
Eric Goulet, member of the DC State Board of Education:
My condolences and prayers go out to the family and friends of (MPD) Officer Wayne David, who was tragically killed in the line of duty to keep our city safe.
DC Council President Phil Mendelson:
Our condolences go out to the family of Officer Wayne David. The Council stands ready to assist the Metropolitan Police Department and its officers and to assist the family in any way possible. It is truly unfortunate when someone goes to work and loses their life.