WASHINGTON, DC – Deon Cannon, a 30-year-old resident of Washington, D.C., has been found guilty on multiple charges, including assault with intent to kill while armed of a minor, following a Labor Day weekend shooting in 2021. U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves and Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela Smith announced the verdict, which was returned on August 7, 2024, by a Superior Court jury.
The incident occurred around 5:40 p.m. on September 5, 2021, at Naylor Gardens on Terrace Road SE. According to evidence presented by the prosecution, Cannon was awaiting the arrival of the victims, a father and his 6-year-old son walking from a playground.
Cannon initiated the attack by firing two shots at them, prompting the father to return fire in defense. A second shooter then emerged, firing 17 additional rounds.
Cannon attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended shortly after the shooting, partly due to his clothing matching that seen in surveillance videos from nearby residences. The prosecution also introduced DNA and ballistics evidence linking Cannon to the crime.
In addition to the assault charges, Cannon was also found guilty of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm, carrying a pistol without a license, possession of a large capacity ammunition feeding device, possession of an unregistered firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition.
The Honorable Judge Rainey Brandt has scheduled sentencing for October 11, 2024, where Cannon faces a maximum sentence of 35 years in prison. He has been in custody since his arrest.
