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Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Man Rejects Plea Offer in Fatal Shooting Case
On a fateful day in May 2023, a tragic incident unfolded outside a 7-Eleven store on the 3900 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue in Southwest Washington, D.C. It was here that 64-year-old Christopher Callahan lost his life in a senseless act of violence.
The suspect, 32-year-old Terry Thompson, is accused of premeditated first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict. The details of the incident are chilling, as Thompson allegedly struck Callahan over the head with a duffle bag containing a rifle before shooting him in cold blood.
Legal Proceedings Unfold
Fast forward to April 17, 2024, Thompson found himself in a courtroom facing the consequences of his actions. After being transferred from St. Elizabeths Hospital to the DC Jail, he stood before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt to consider a plea deal offered by prosecutors.
Despite being presented with two plea offers that would have resulted in a reduced charge of second-degree murder and a sentencing range of 18-to-22 years or 14-to-26 years of incarceration, Thompson chose to reject both deals. His defense attorney, Pierce Suen, indicated Thompson’s desire for a trial date, leading to a series of legal discussions in the courtroom.
Judge’s Decision
During the proceedings, the prosecution highlighted a report from the Department of Behavioral Health confirming Thompson’s mental competency to stand trial. This pivotal information led Judge Brandt to make a crucial decision – Thompson was to be transferred immediately to the DC Jail, as there was no legal basis to keep him at St. Elizabeths any longer.
Additionally, Pierce Suen expressed his intention to withdraw from the case, prompting a request for the Public Defender Services to find a replacement attorney for Thompson within 30 days. The prosecution emphasised the need for a timely trial, citing the delayed proceedings despite the indictment being filed nearly a year ago.
What’s Next?
As the case moves forward, a status hearing is scheduled for May 17 to set a trial date and determine the next steps in the legal process. The events that transpired on that tragic day in May 2023 continue to unfold in the courtroom, seeking justice for the victim and accountability for the accused.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing case as the wheels of justice turn in the nation’s capital.
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