Washington, D.C., USA (AP) – A mother from North Carolina journeyed to D.C.’s Metro Police’s First District Headquarters on a Saturday morning to protest the handling of the investigation into her son’s killing over a year ago. Kristian Stewart, a 21-year-old, was fatally shot outside the Gardens Apartments in Southwest D.C., while visiting for his grandmother’s funeral.
Tequanitha Stewart, Kristian’s mother, expressed frustration over the lack of progress in the case, stating that the moments leading up to her son’s death were documented on video. The footage, captured on a cell phone, was later shared on Reddit. Despite the video evidence, no arrests have been made, and Tequanitha continues to demand justice for her son’s untimely death.
According to Tequanitha, Kristian had moved from D.C. to North Carolina in 2013 to escape the violence plaguing the area. However, his return to D.C. for his grandmother’s funeral tragically resulted in his fatal shooting. Tequanitha has taken legal action against The Gardens Apartments, alleging that malfunctioning security cameras failed to capture the incident.
While residing in North Carolina, Tequanitha remains resolute in seeking justice for her son, planning to make regular visits to D.C. and partake in further protests. She emphasized the importance of keeping Kristian’s memory alive and ensuring that his life is not forgotten.
Metro Police confirmed that the investigation into Kristian’s death is ongoing and urged anyone with information to come forward. In a bid to encourage cooperation, the police department has offered a $25,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the case.
Tequanitha’s persistence in seeking justice for her son serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence on families and communities. As she continues to advocate for closure and accountability, her unwavering commitment to honoring Kristian’s memory underscores the need for transparency and accountability in addressing such tragedies.