DC Man Charged in Fatal Shooting of Two Teenagers in Prince George’s County

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, Md. – A shocking act of violence has claimed the lives of two teenagers and left a community grieving after a late-night shooting in Temple Hills, Maryland. Authorities have arrested and charged 27-year-old Duan Goddard of Fort Washington in connection with the deadly incident that occurred Tuesday night.

Prince George’s County Police say the shooting took place around 9:35 p.m. on May 27 in the 5500 block of Haras Place. Officers who were patrolling the area reportedly heard gunfire and quickly responded. Upon arriving at the scene, they discovered two teenage boys suffering from gunshot wounds outside an apartment building in the 5200 block of Haras Place.

The victims have been identified as 16-year-old Thomas Smith, Jr. of Washington, D.C., and 16-year-old Michael Bassett of Temple Hills. Smith was pronounced dead at the scene, while Bassett was transported to a nearby hospital, where he died from his injuries a short time later.

A third teenager, who was reportedly with Smith and Bassett during the shooting, was also shot at but was not injured. Authorities have not released the identity of this individual due to their age and the ongoing nature of the investigation.

Suspect Identified and in Custody

Following a swift investigation, police identified Duan Goddard as the primary suspect. Goddard, a resident of Fort Washington, is currently in custody in Washington, D.C., awaiting extradition to Prince George’s County, where he will face multiple charges.

He has been formally charged with two counts of first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree murder, and additional related offenses. Law enforcement officials have not disclosed what led to the shooting, and a motive has not yet been confirmed publicly.

Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation

The murders have sent shockwaves through the Temple Hills and greater Prince George’s County community, especially given the young ages of the victims. Friends, family members, and community leaders have expressed sorrow and disbelief over the tragic loss of two teenagers.

“This is an unimaginable loss for two families and a tragic moment for our community,” a Prince George’s County Police spokesperson said. “We are doing everything in our power to ensure justice is served swiftly and fully.”

Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including what may have led up to the incident and whether the suspect and victims knew each other. Investigators are also examining surveillance footage, collecting witness statements, and pursuing additional leads.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Homicide Unit. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers.

A Growing Concern

This tragic incident adds to ongoing concerns about youth violence in the region. Community leaders are renewing calls for conflict resolution resources, more youth programming, and greater support for families to help stem the tide of violence that continues to impact young lives.

For now, the focus remains on supporting the victims’ families and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.

Goddard will be extradited to Maryland, where he will face trial. Police urge anyone with further information to step forward as they continue to piece together the events that led to this heartbreaking crime.