An 18-year-old suspect wanted for murdering a congressional intern is now linked to a second homicide just four days later, exposing the deadly consequences of Washington D.C.’s escalating youth violence crisis.
Story Highlights
- Naqwan Antonio Lucas, 18, wanted for killing congressional intern Eric Tarpinian-Jachym on June 30, 2025
- Lucas also suspected in July 4th murder of 17-year-old Zoey Kelley in separate D.C. shooting
- Two juvenile accomplices arrested in September, but Lucas remains at large despite $75,000 reward
- Case highlights dangerous pattern of armed youth violence targeting innocent victims in nation’s capital
Double Murder Suspect Terrorizes Nation’s Capital
Naqwan Antonio Lucas faces two counts of first-degree murder while armed after D.C. police connected him to separate deadly shootings within days of each other. The 18-year-old allegedly shot and killed Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a 21-year-old congressional intern, in Northwest D.C. on June 30, 2025. Four days later, Lucas is suspected of gunning down 17-year-old Zoey Kelley in another neighborhood shooting, demonstrating a brazen escalation of violence that threatens public safety.
Congressional Intern Becomes Victim of Street Violence
Eric Tarpinian-Jachym was working as a congressional intern when he became an innocent victim of D.C.’s gun violence epidemic. The 21-year-old was shot in a busy Northwest D.C. area and died the following day from his injuries. His murder brought national attention to the case, highlighting how violent crime now threatens even those serving in government roles. The targeting of a congressional intern represents a disturbing new level of brazenness among D.C.’s criminal elements.
Juvenile Suspects Charged as Adults in Brutal Crimes
Two 17-year-old accomplices, Kelvin Thomas and Jailen Lucas, were arrested in September 2025 in connection with the congressional intern’s murder. The Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force apprehended both suspects, who are being charged as adults due to the severity of their alleged crimes. This decision reflects the serious nature of the charges and sends a clear message that violent offenders will face adult consequences regardless of age. The arrests provided some progress in the case but left the primary suspect still at large.
Massive Manhunt Offers Record Reward
Federal and local authorities have launched an intensive search for Lucas, offering a combined $75,000 reward for information leading to his arrest. The FBI Washington Field Office, U.S. Marshals Service, and Metropolitan Police Department are collaborating in the manhunt, demonstrating the case’s high priority. Police released images of Lucas in September and continue seeking public assistance in locating him. This substantial reward reflects the urgent need to remove this dangerous individual from D.C. streets before he potentially strikes again.
Youth Violence Crisis Demands Stronger Action
This case exemplifies the growing crisis of armed youth violence plaguing American cities, where teenagers commit multiple murders without hesitation. The involvement of juveniles in such heinous crimes raises serious questions about failed intervention programs and the need for stronger deterrents. When 17-year-olds can be charged with executing public servants and other innocent victims, it signals a complete breakdown of respect for law and human life that demands immediate conservative solutions focused on accountability and public safety.
Sources:
MPD Releases Additional Images – Outstanding Northwest Homicide Suspect
U.S. Marshals Tactical K9 Arrest Two Suspects – Congressional Intern’s Murder
