Washington DC authorities have arrested two teenage boys in connection with a brutal attack and robbery that ultimately left a famous DJ dead.
At a press conference on Friday, Metropolitan Police Commissioner Pamela Smith announced that an unidentified 14-year-old and a 16-year-old boy were arrested on Thursday in connection with the death of Brian, a local DJ and hairstylist. Smith.
“While nothing can undo this senseless loss, we hope that today's arrest is a step toward some measure of justice and healing,” Chief Smith said. “We're here today to send a very clear message: If you commit violence in our city, we will find you and we will hold you accountable.”
authorities believe the suspect attacked and robbed Smith, known as “The Barber,” was seen walking home after work in the early morning hours of Oct. 27.
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Police in Washington, D.C., have arrested two teens in connection with a brutal attack and robbery that killed famous DJ Brian Smith. (GoFundMe)
The police chief added that surveillance cameras played a key role in identifying the suspect.
Smith was found seriously injured and unconscious, and his cell phone, wallet and credit cards had also been taken.
Because Smith had no identification, police were unable to identify him until his family reported him missing later that day.
He died after being in a coma for more than a week. The Northern Virginia Medical Examiner's Office is working to determine the cause and manner of Smith's death.
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Metropolitan Police Commissioner Pamela Smith said Thursday that a 14-year-old and a 16-year-old boy were arrested in connection with the death of Brian Smith. (Washington Metropolitan Police Department)
Smith's mother, Lela Sandoval, said: he told FOX 5 DC on Friday. She said a detective called her in the morning to give her an update on the case.
She told FOX 5 in a previous interview that her son fought hard for his life while in the hospital, but the decision was made to take him off life support after developing lung problems.
“They killed my son over a credit card with a very low balance and a cell phone,” Sandoval said last week. “These people took my entire life away.”
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Brian Smith was a well-known DJ and hairstylist in the Washington DC metropolitan area. (St. Petersburg)
Metro police believe the two teens are also suspects in a series of attempted robberies and assaults that occurred on the same day as Smith's attack.
Police said the weapon used in Smith's attack has not yet been recovered, but the investigation continues.
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The suspects have been charged with three misdemeanor counts of robbery and one count of assault with intent to commit robbery, but authorities said they may soon face additional charges in connection with Smith's death.
“My message to young people…if you commit a violent crime in this city, we will find you and we will hold you accountable,” Chief Smith said. “If you choose to jeopardize the safety of our community, you will face the consequences.”
