In the autumn of 2007, a Washington, D.C. community was shaken by the tragic death of Alberta Dunton, a 56-year-old African-American woman. On the afternoon of Thursday, November 1, 2007, at approximately 4:10 pm, her body was discovered in the rear alley of the 900 block of 12th Street, NE. The Metropolitan Police Department launched a homicide investigation into the circumstances of her death.
Described as a loving mother and grandmother, Alberta Dunton was survived by her two children, Anthony Plummer and Bernice Underwood, as well as twelve grandchildren, a sister, and a brother. Her sudden and violent death left her family and friends grappling with an immense loss.
The incident was one of several homicides to occur in that police service area during that year, adding to the community's sense of unease.
In the immediate aftermath of the discovery, law enforcement officials appealed to the public for any information that could lead to an arrest and conviction in the case. A significant reward of up to $25,000 was offered for tips that would help solve the crime. Despite these efforts and the ongoing investigation by the Metropolitan Police Department, the case grew cold. To this day, the homicide of Alberta Dunton remains unsolved, with no arrests made and no suspects publicly identified. Her case is a lingering reminder of a life cut short and a family still awaiting justice.
