On November 3, 2023, at about 11:37 p.m. in Columbia Heights, 14-year-old Niko Estep Jr. was riding an electric scooter with friends near the gas station at 14th and Fairmont Streets NW when gunfire erupted. Niko was struck in the back, taken to a hospital, and died of a fatal gunshot wound; a second youth suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

Investigators say surveillance video from the gas station shows 17-year-old Lorenzo Thompson standing nearby, pulling out a firearm and firing roughly 12 shots in seven seconds toward the group on scooters. Authorities allege Thompson’s mother was present during the shooting and did not intervene. Days later, police say Thompson posted on Instagram Live, saying Got him and naming Niko by his nickname Y.B., and appeared to celebrate the attack.

Thompson was arrested on November 9, 2023, and charged as an adult with second-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to kill, and firearm offenses; he pleaded not guilty. No public motive has been disclosed. If anyone knew Niko, the other youth involved, or saw activity near 14th and Fairmont that night, please share what was seen.