Maurica Manyan was 25 when she died on August 4, 2022, during a training exercise at the Anacostia Neighborhood Library in Southeast Washington, D.C. She had been working as a special police officer and was taking part in a baton-training session led by retired D.C. Police lieutenant Jesse Porter. As the session was ending, Porter drew a loaded service weapon instead of a training firearm and a single shot struck Maurica in the chest. She was transported to a nearby hospital but died from her injuries.

Porter was arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter. Surveillance footage of the incident was later identified as a key piece of evidence. Maurica’s family has called for accountability and said they intend to pursue a civil lawsuit against those they hold responsible for how the training was handled.

If anyone attended that training or has information about the session and safety procedures used that day, please share what you know.