On a cold Saturday evening in Washington, D.C., a tragic event unfolded that would ultimately lead to a years-long search for justice. On December 18, 2010, at approximately 6:30 p.m., police responded to a call in the 3600 block of 12th Street, Northeast. Upon arrival, they discovered 46-year-old Rajeshkumar Patel suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency services transported the male victim to a local hospital for treatment. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, Patel succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead.
The case was ruled a homicide, and the Metropolitan Police Department launched an investigation into the shooting death of Mr. Patel. In an effort to gather more information and identify those responsible, the police department reached out to the public for assistance. They offered a substantial reward of up to $25,000 for any information that would lead to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the murder.
The case remains open as authorities continue to seek answers and bring closure to the family of Rajeshkumar Patel.
In May 2012, nearly a year and a half after the fatal shooting, the D.C. police released a video to the public showing two male suspects they believed to be connected to the death of Rajeshkumar Patel. The release of the video was a renewed plea for public assistance in identifying the individuals. Authorities urged anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it might seem, to contact them. Tips could be provided by phone or through an anonymous text tip line. To date, there has been no public announcement of any arrests made in the case. The investigation into the death of Rajeshkumar Patel is ongoing.
