Washington, D.C. police have shared additional images of the third suspect in the murder of a Capitol Hill intern from June.
Eric Tarpinian Yachim, a 21-year-old student at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, was tragically shot on June 30th and succumbed to his injuries the following day. According to the Metropolitan Police Department, the incident occurred in the 1200 block of 7th Avenue, NW, while Tarpinian-Jachym was interning for Kansas Representative Ron Estes.
Two suspects, Jalen Lucas and Kelvin Thomas Jr., have been apprehended in connection with the case, as announced by U.S. Attorney Janine Pillo in early September. The third suspect, 18-year-old Nakwan Antonio Lucas, remains at large and is wanted on first-degree murder charges.
Both Lucas and Thomas have documented histories of violence, and Pillo remarked on their juvenile backgrounds.
Police have mobilized efforts to catch the third suspect, signaling the ongoing investigation. During a press conference, Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith expressed confidence in locating Lucas. She stated, “While grieving the significant loss felt by Eric’s family, I believe we will capture the third suspect.” Eric was in D.C. fulfilling his role as a dedicated intern on Capitol Hill.
During the shooting, it’s reported that a woman and a 16-year-old boy also sustained injuries. Authorities say the gunfire erupted from a vehicle, targeting a group that included Tarpinian-Jachym, who was, unfortunately, not the intended target.
Tarpinian-Jachym’s mother, Tamara Jachym, previously shared how her son faced challenges throughout his life but consistently found ways to persevere. She highlighted his bright spirit and the authenticity of his smile, attributing his success to his resilience in the face of adversity.
In a bid to assist the ongoing investigation, the FBI and Metropolitan Police Department are offering a $40,000 reward for information leading to arrests and convictions. Those with details are encouraged to reach out to the police at (202) 727-9099.
