Tragically, something happened in Oxon Hill on the evening of April 22 that shook the community of Prince George’s County. Around ten o’clock in the evening, the 1000 block of Kennebec Street was rocked to its very foundation by gunshots, and the sound prompted an immediate response from the police. Upon arrival, they saw a horrific scene: an adult male and 16-year-old De’Marco Bradford lay wounded, victims of an irrational act of violence.
Responders wasted little time in rushing Bradford and the adult male to an adjacent hospital in a last-ditch effort to preserve their lives. Medical staff made heroic efforts, but Bradford’s injuries were too great to treat. Sad to say, he passed away from his injuries in the days after the incident, leaving behind a community in mourning and bereaved loved ones.
The second victim, who was lucky to escape the attack alive, had the terrifying agony of healing from his wounds. Although his injuries were not considered life-threatening, the emotional and mental effects of such a horrific experience can take a long time to recover.
The police are dead set on finding and punishing those guilty for this horrific act, so they’ve begun an exhaustive investigation. The seriousness and haste with which this case is being pursued is evidenced by the pledge of a reward of up to $25,000. For anyone with information that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of the person or people responsible for this tragic act, the offer serves as a ray of hope and a rallying cry.
Everyone in the community feels the pain and loss that De’Marco Bradford’s tragic death has brought to his loved ones; his death is a sobering reminder of the terrible toll that gun violence takes. The overwhelming support they have received from neighbors, friends, and even strangers who share their outrage at this senseless act of brutality has brought them some comfort in their time of mourning.
De’Marco Bradford and other victims of violence can be assured that the community will remain united in their pursuit of justice as the investigation continues. No matter how small, every piece of information has the power to help a bereaved family find closure and punish individuals responsible for their acts.
Authorities are asking anyone with knowledge to contact them at 301-516-2522 or submit a tip online. In the relentless quest for justice, every tip, every lead, brings us one step closer to holding those responsible to account and preventing another tragedy in De’Marco Bradford’s honor.
The people of Prince George’s County have never been stronger than they are now, after suffering such a devastating loss. In their unity, they affirm that De’Marco Bradford will be remembered not only as a victim, but also as an emblem of strength and the never-ending struggle for a fairer and safer world.