Rock Creek |  |
The following Incident Reports were extracted from the NPS Morning Reports/Coalition Reports from 1989-2025. They are not a complete record of all incidents which occurred in this park during this timeframe. INCIDENTS | |
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Friday, October 24, 1986 Location: 44th. & Reservoir Roads, NW, DC At approximately 7:24 am on Friday, 10/24/86, the body of an unidentified white male subject, believed to be in late 20's, was found in the Park, at the above location. Preliminary investigation indicated that the victim probably died as a result of a gun shot wound to the head: however, the exact cause of death will be determined after an autopsy is performed. A weapon was discovered at the scene. The incident is currently being handled as an "unclassified death" pending the report of the D.C. Medical Examiner's Office. The victim was found by a jogger at approximately 7:10 am who subsequently notified Park Police Communications. The primary investigative agency for this incident is the Homicide Branch of the Metropolitan Police Department. U.S. Park Police have taken a supplementary report on this matter. USPP Case Number 42894.
Location: Grover Archibald Park A citizen heard gunshots and phoned Metro Police who notified USPP. Both agencies responded to Grover Archibald Park where they found A.W.. She was pronounced dead at the scene. She evidently had shot herself in the head with a .38 weapon. Metro police are handling the investigation.
Location: Grove 2 On Friday, July 24, 1987 at approximately 0230 hrs. U.S. Park Police Officer Virginia Lo, observed a drug violation in Grove 2, Rock Creek Park (parking area just north of the intersection of Beach Drive and Park Road NW, Washington, DC.) During her investigation, the unidentified black male subject, occupying a Toyota, forced his way out of the vehicle and a struggle ensued. The subject ran into the wooded area and later returned to the vehicle where a second struggle began. During this time, the subject got back into the vehicle, started it and began to leave the area, dragging the officer with him. At this time the officer discharged her weapon, striking the subject in the right arm. He was transported to George Washington Hospital, where he was admitted in stable condition. Officer Lo was transported to the Washington Hospital Center where she was treated and released. She has been placed on administrative leave pending a complete investigation of the incident.
Location: Grove 2 Persons involved in the shooting incident at Rock Creek Park have been indentified and charged with, the following: D.J. has been charged with assaulting a Federal Officer/ assault with a deadly weapon (a vehicle), and possession of a deadly weapon (brass knuckles). He allegedly (according to his companion) dumped 40 tins of PCP in the creek at the time he was detained by USPP officer Lo. Two rolled cigarettes were found in his possession in the vehicle.
Location: Edgewater An officer at the Park Police horse barn at Edgewater was notified by a citizen of a fight in progress on the horse trail just outside of the barn. He called dispatch; before he could investigate, however, three people carried in an Hispanic male with a gunshot in the shoulder. The victim was transported to George Washington Hospital and is in stable condition. Investigation revealed that the man had been approached by a black male, about 19 years old, who asked for money. When the victim either resisted or failed to provide the money, the man shot him with a small caliber weapon. An investigation is underway.
Location: Low Water Bridge While filling fuel tanks at an apartment complex on Connecticut Avenue, a Stuart Petroleum fuel truck accidentally discharged 1200 gallons of oil into the city's sewer system. That oil eventually spilled into Rock Creek, but most of it was caught by the four booms set out on the creek - three near the point of outflow and the fourth near the Potomac. The park staff and D.C. fire and hazardous materials departments responded; clean-up is being conducted by a contractor, Clean America.
Location: Pierce Mill R.B., 10, of Tallahassee, Florida jumped over the falls at Pierce Mill and became caught in the currents under the falls. J.S., 44, of Washington, D.C. attempted to rescue R.B. and had problems in the water as well. Park Police and District fire units responded and found J.S. pulseless. Efforts to revive him were unsuccessful. R.B., who was visiting an aunt in Washington, was transported to a local hospital where he is currently in critical condition.
Location: Southwest Freeway U.S. Park Police Officer Michael Snowden was seriously injured during a high speed vehicle chase through the District of Columbia and into Montgomery County, Maryland on August 8th. Snowden responded to a call for assistance from Metro Police and began pursuit of the suspect vehicle near the National Mall. The chase proceeded through Rock Creek park then out of the District into Montgomery County. On Bradley Avenue, the suspect vehicle pulled into the oncoming traffic lanes and Snowden followed. A Montgomery County officer was responding to the chase scene from the opposite direction, as he approached the suspect vehicle the suspect vehicle swerved off the roadway. Snowden and the Montgomery County officer then collided head on. Both officers were seriously injured and were transported to local hospitals. Snowden is currently listed in serious but stable condition at Suburban Hospital. The 14 year old operator of the suspect vehicle escaped on foot, but was apprehended on the 9th by Park Police officers and is being charged with a variety of offenses.
On the morning of June 11th, an elderly woman was struck and killed by a southbound vehicle as she attempted to cross Rock Creek Parkway near its intersection with Virginia Avenue. The victim remains unidentified at this time. The operator of the vehicle has not been charged; Park Police officers are investigating. (CompuServe message from RAD/NCRO).
Just before 8 p.m. on the 12th, Park Police dispatch received a report of gunshots in the area of Park and Adams Mill roads. Units from the Rock Creek Station arrived shortly thereafter and found an unidentified man suffering from a severe gunshot wound to the head. The victim was transported to the Washington Hospital Center's trauma unit. (Dave Blackburn, LES, RAD/NCRO, via CompuServe message to RAD/WASO).
A heating oil leak from an underground storage tank was discovered draining into Hazen Creek, a tributary of Rock Creek, on the afternoon of the 2nd. Park Police, park resource management personnel and a D.C. hazardous materials team arrived on scene around 3:30 p.m. The source of the heating oil was determined to be an underground storage tank that serves a nearby condominium complex. It's estimated that approximately 4,500 gallons of heating oil spilled into the creek - the worst spill in the park to date. A private firm is on scene to clean up the spill, and park personnel are monitoring their progress. Fifteen booms and associated sorbent materials are in place along Hazen Creek. Cleanup should continue for at least another week. (Bob Ford, ROCR, via CompuServe message from Carroll Schell, RAD/NCRO, 4 p.m. EST, 1/3/90).
Park Police officers were notified of an armed robbery in the park on the afternoon of February 20th. A man with a two-inch revolver approached Constantine Dyce and said "Give me what you got." Dyce grabbed the gun; during the ensuing struggle, four shots were fired without effect. The assailant, then pulled a knife and stabbed Dyce in the head, neck and hands before fleeing the area. Dyce vas treated at Howard University Hospital and released. Six "dime" bags of marijuana were found at the crime scene indicating that the robbery may have been drug related. (CompuServe message from Capt. Dave Blackburn, RAD/NCRO, 3:30 p.m. EST, 2/21/90).
Just after 1 a.m. on the 25th, Park Police officers were notified of a fatal one-car accident which had occurred on Glover Road North in the park. A 1986 Toyota van was headed southbound when it rounded a curve, crossed the road, then went off the roadway and struck a tree. The driver was killed in the accident. A preliminary investigation indicates that the cause of the accident was excessive speed. (CompuServe message from Capt. Dave Blackburn, RAD/NCRO, 11 a.m. EDT, 4/25/90).
During the early hours of May 19th, Park Police officers responded to a report of a traffic accident at the intersection of Rock Creek Parkway and cathedral Avenue. Upon arrival, they (discovered that a two-door BMW had left the roadway and struck several trees, killing one male occupant and seriously injuring the other. The injured man was taken to Georgetown Hospital. (CompuServe message from RAD/NCRO, 8 a.m. EDT, 5/23/90).
Two NPS employees discovered a Volvo parked in Grove 13 with an unconscious male inside on May 22nd. Park Police officers responded and found the body of a well-dressed, 61-year-old man in the car's right rear seat. He apparently died of a gunshot wound. Members of the USPP criminal investigations branch are investigating. (CompuServe message from RAD/NCRO, 10:30 a.m. EDT, 5/24/90).
At 11:45 p.m. on the 12th, Officer James Culver stopped a late-model Toyota 4x4 with three people in it in Grove 13, a popular day-use picnic area in the park. The park had closed at nightfall. As Culver returned to his car after checking the driver's license, the driver jumped him and beat him severely with a blunt instrument, probably a 2x4 board later found at the scene. Culver was able to crawl to his cruiser and call dispatch for help. He was transported to Washington Hospital Center's intensive care unit, where he is being treated for a concussion, brain contusion, severe facial lacerations, a broken jaw, and multiple broken bones. He's also expected to lose sight in his left eye. A search was immediately begun for his assailant. On Monday afternoon, a 25-year-old man from Washington was arrested and was later questioned through a Spanish-speaking interpreter at Park Police headquarters. As a result of the questioning, police obtained a warrant for an unnamed 23-year-old Northwest man who was allegedly involved in the beating. He is currently being sought. (Reports from George Berklacy, Public Affairs, WASO, 8/13, and The Washington Times, 8/14).
A second suspect in the assault on Officer James Culver was arrested by FBI agents on the 15th in Mobile, Alabama, after they learned that he was on a Greyhound bus en route to Houston, Texas. The suspect, J.B.S., 38, did not resist when agents boarded the bus in mid-afternoon and identified themselves. J.B.S., whose 35-year-old brother, H., was arrested Monday, was scheduled to appear before a magistrate in Mobile yesterday. He has been charged with assaulting a federal officer while armed. The brothers are from El Salvador, and immigration officials said on Wednesday that H.S. is in the country illegally. Culver's condition is improving, but he was still listed in critical condition yesterday with multiple fractures, bruises to the brain and a fractured jaw. Cards and messages of support should be sent to Officer James Culver, Room 3F6, Washington Hospital Center, 110 Irving Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20010. (News report from The Washington Post. 8/16, and supplemental information from USPP Dispatch).
Officer James Culver, who was assaulted in the park late on the evening of August 12th, has lost the sight in his left eye. Although Culver remains in serious condition, he was released from Washington Hospital Center last week to return to his family home in Pittsburgh for additional medical care. He also suffered a broken jaw, bruises on his brain and facial and skull fractures. A federal grand jury has returned indictments against H. and J.S., charging them each with four counts related to the assault. (Washington Post. 8/29).
J.B.S., who was arrested on August 15th for assaulting Officer James Culver, was formally charged on September 14th with assault on a federal officer while armed, assault with intent to kill, maiming and assault on certain federal officials. His brother, H.S., was arrested on the same charges on August 13th. Culver, who received multiple skull and jaw fractures and lost sight in one eye, is at home in Pittsburgh recovering from his injuries. (Telefax from RAD/NCRO, 9/14).
At 9 p.m. on the evening of the 3rd, Park Police officers were dispatched to the park to investigate a reported shooting. The found two victims - D.C., 33, and C.H., 19, both of Washington - who were each suffering from superficial gunshot wounds to their heads. The pair had been abducted at gunpoint from a hotel in Lanham, Maryland, taken to the park and shot. Both were taken to an area hospital for treatment. An investigation is underway. (Telefax from Capt. Marvin Ellison, RAD/NCRO, 11/6).
At 2:20 a.m. on Saturday, October 10th, a Volkswagen operated by 33-year-old R.B. crossed the double line and struck a second Volkswagen head-on. R.B. was pronounced dead at the scene. Both women in the second vehicle had to be extricated from their car and are in serious but stable condition with numerous injuries. Initial investigation indicates that speed, a slippery road surface and alcohol all contributed to the accident. [Lt. John Harasek, USPP, 10/15]
Park Police officers stopped a car with a fraudulent temporary tag early on the afternoon of June 2nd. The officers noted a narcotics violation; during a pat down of one of the occupants, 19-year-old D.J., they came upon and seized a loaded .44 caliber revolver. Another six rounds of ammunition were taken from his person. Investigation revealed that D.J. was a student at a local high school and was returning to school. D.J. was taken into custody. [Lt. H.A. Berberich, USPP, 6/3]
On the afternoon of October 9th, Park Police units responded to a report of a man assaulting people and attempting to steal their vehicle at Beach Drive and Klingle Road. Officers chased and caught the suspect near the Porter Street overpass. He was arrested, handcuffed and placed in a cruiser. After a few moments, one of the officers noticed that the suspect did not appear to be breathing. He was removed from the cruiser and CPR was begun. He was then transported to Medstar, where he was pronounced dead. The suspect has not yet been identified. The investigation will be handled by the Metro police homicide branch. [Lt. John Harasek, USPP, 10/12]
Just before 11 p.m. on March 30th, a Jeep Cherokee heading north on Beach Drive swerved to the left, hit some rocks, and flipped over. The driver and sole occupant, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was killed in the accident. The name has not been released pending notification of next of kin. Park Police officers are investigating. (Lt. Lance Ludwick, USPP, 4/4]
On November 11th, about 3,000 gallons of heating oil were spilled from the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) power plant into the storm water system which drains into Soapstone Run. A half mile length of the creek was affected by the spill, but the extent of resource damage is as yet unknown. It appears the spill resulted from negligence in transferring oil from one tank to another. Clean-up is being conducted by a contractor hired by UDC, which is also liable for most NPS response costs associated with the spill under the Oil Pollution Act. Enforcement actions for violating the Clean Water Act (33 USC 1311) may also be pursued. [Einar Olsen, RCR, RAD/NCRO, 11/16]
While walking on the bike path near Thompson's boat house with her daughter on the evening of May 26th, an off-duty city police officer was accosted by a man who said he had a gun. The officer, fearing for her safety, shot the man three times. He is in serious condition in a local hospital. An investigation is underway. [Bill Lynch, Acting RLES, RAD/NCRO, 6/1]
Just before 6 a.m. on the morning of May 23rd, a woman leaped from the north end of the Zoo Tunnel onto Beach Drive and suffered serious injuries. She was taken to George Washington University Hospital, where she was last reported in critical condition. The incident is being investigated as an attempted suicide. [Bill Lynch, Acting RLES, RAD/NCRO, 5/24]
The heavy rains which fell throughout the Mid-Atlantic regions and New England on Friday, January 19th, coupled with the melting of several feet of snow throughout the area, caused severe flooding in several parks. The following reports - some preliminary and by phone - were received as of this morning; more are expected later today: * Rock Creek, National Capital Parks East and Central - Portions of all areas have been closed due to flooding. [CR, CHOH; Einar Olsen, RAD/NCFO; Bill Halainen, IO, Wet and Wild Incident, DEWA]
On the afternoon of February 20th, a citizen advised Park Police officers of a body in a wooded area of the park near Fort DeRussey. Officers found the body of a middle-aged man who had apparently shot himself. The victim has not yet been identified. Suicide is suspected. [Bill Lynch, LES, NCFO]
For many years, the Army Corps of Engineers operators of the district's water supply facility at Dalecarlia have periodically discharged heavily chlorinated water into Battery Kemble Run, a tributary of the Potomac River, as part of the facility's cleaning operation. These discharges, which were in violation of the Clean Water Act (33 USC 1311), killed all aquatic life in the stream and created strong odors which resulted in numerous complaints from park neighbors and visitors to Fletcher's Boathouse, a park concession facility. A joint investigation was launched by the Park Police, the SSO's Ranger Services office and EPA's Criminal Investigation Division. Shortly after it was begun, Corps managers determined that it was in their best interest to eliminate the illegal discharge to preclude prosectuion. No further enforcement action is contemplated. The Dalecarlia facility has been the subject of numerous complaints and inspections by EPA, and the Corps is now attempting to turn over the facility to local officials. [Einar Olsen, CR, RSD/SSO, NCFA]
On the morning of June 5th, D.F. was attempting to turn his motorcycle left onto Virginia Avenue from Rock Creek Parkway when he was struck broadside by a northbound van. The van then struck another vehicle. D.F. was taken to a hospital and place on life support, but is not expected to survive. Park Police officers are investigating. [Bill Lynch, LES, NCFDO]
Reports on the impacts of Hurricane Fran have been received from a number of Eastern parks. Of particular note is the fact that the flooding along the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers has in most cases been as or more severe than that which occurred during January, making this the first year since the National Weather Service began keeping track early this century that areas along those rivers have been hit by two major floods. As of Sunday night, the Potomac was flowing past Little Falls in Maryland at more than 300,000 cubic feet per second (cfs) - 130 times the normal volume. When the Shenandoah River crested on Saturday, it had a flow rate of 153,000 cfs, or more than 200 times its typical rate. o National Capital Parks - East Potomac Park was flooded and closed on Friday. Anacostia Park was also closed. Flooding subsequently forced the closure of Rock Creek Parkway. At the Tidal Basin near the Jefferson Memorial, NPS workers built a levee over the weekend to keep the Potomac from flowing down 17th Street onto Constitution Avenue. [Greg Styles, IC, SHEN; Kevin Fitzgerald, CHOH; Gary Pollock, GWMP; Sandy Ailey, PIO, NCFA; Jim Fox, BLRI; Bob Woody, CI&VS, CAHA; Newt Sikes, CUIS; John Breen, FOPU; Andrew Loveless, Superintendent, KIMO; John Tucker, Superintendent, FOSU; Chuck Harris, CR, CALO; Mike Johnson, CR, FRSP; Washington Post]
During the early morning hours of October 25th, Park Police officers arrested a 16-year-old male in connection with a series of assaults on female joggers which have occurred recently along the Rock Creek Parkway bike path. He was charged with attempted robbery in the most recent incident, which occurred on October 21st. Additional charges are pending. The boy is from Philadelphia but has been living with foster parents in Washington for the past three months. At the time of his arrest, he was listed as a missing person. [Bill Lynch, LES, NCSO]
M.R., 30, of Alexandria, Virginia, was killed in a motor vehicle accident on the parkway during the early morning hours of January 9th. Investigators believe that M.R. jumped from the passenger seat of a moving vehicle and was struck by a vehicle also traveling southbound on the parkway. M.R. was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The parkway was closed for several hours for accident reconstruction. The investigation continues. [Bill Lynch, LES, NCFA]
On the afternoon of January 18th, a park neighbor reported a fuel odor emanating from Soapstone Valley. Investigation revealed that heating oil was being discharged into Soapstone Creek. Several local and federal agencies responded, including NPS units. The source of the leak was determined to be an underground storage tank on the campus of the University of the District of Columbia. It's estimated that several thousand gallons of fuel oil leaked into the surrounding soil and storm sewer which feeds the creek. The university accepted responsibility for the spill and hired a contractor to perform cleanup activities. Administrative or criminal enforcement action is being considered; Park Police officers and rangers are conferring with the EPA and FBI. The university has been the source of at least three known spills into park waters. [Einar Olsen, CR, NCFA, 1/21]
On Sunday, April 6th, Park Police officers arrested K.M., 18, for the abduction and rape of a 14-year-old girl. According to investigators, K.M. and another male abducted the girl from a city street, drove her to the Carter Barron Amphitheater parking area in the park, then raped her. The victim knew her assailant and identified him at his residence for officers. K.M. was arrested and is being charged with the kidnapping and sexual assault of a minor. The girl was treated at Children's Hospital. [Bill Lynch, RLES, NCR, 4/7]
A motorist discovered the body of a 55-year-old male in the area of Beach Drive under Calvert Street a few minutes before midnight on May 29th. Preliminary indications are that the man took his life by jumping from the Calvert Street bridge. USPP and city officers are investigating. [Bill Lynch, RLES, NCR, 5/30]
The body of R.B., 22, of Washington, D.C., was found in a thickly wooded ravine on the afternoon of June 7th. She had been reported missing on May 29th. It took police and rescue personnel over two hours to negotiate the ravine's steep sides to reach the body and search the area. R.B. suffered an injury to her head. The medical examiner is currently attempting to determine whether her death was accidental or if she was the victim of a crime. [Bill Lynch, RLES, NCRO, 6/9]
On August 14th, Rock Creek maintenance personnel and Park Police officers responded to a report of a mud flow across the parkway at Massachusetts Avenue. Investigation revealed that a contractor draining a park neighbor's swimming pool had intentionally drained the water down the park hillside rather than discharging the water into a sanitary sewer. The water caused a mud slide, which resulted in closure of the northbound lanes of the parkway. Some of the mud and chlorinated water also entered a storm sewer which feeds into Rock Creek. The contractor had been previously warned about this practice. The Park Police and FBI are investigating this incident as a possible violation of the Clean Water Act (33 USC 1311 and 1319). The NPS may also seek resource damage cost recovery. [Einar Olsen, RCR, NCRO, 8/21]
On Sunday, August 17th, the Military Road bridge over Beach Drive collapsed, trapping two construction workers who had been working at the site under steel beams. Fire and rescue workers responded and extricated the two victims. L.W. was pronounced dead at the scene; the second victim was transported to a local hospital, where he remains in serious condition. DC police are investigating the incident. [Bill Lynch, RLES, NCRO, 8/20]
Park Police officers arrested M.J. for breaking into the auto shop at the Brentwood maintenance facility on the evening of January 10th. The building was under surveillance by officers following several burglaries. Following his arrest, M.J. confessed to the previous burglaries at Brentwood and to other break-ins in the neighborhood. [Bill Lynch, RLES, NCRO, 1/12]
The body of P.C., 55, of Washington, DC, was found adjacent to Beach Drive near the intersection with Rock Creek Parkway on the afternoon of January 10th. Investigators believe that he leaped to his death from the Calvert Bridge. [Bill Lynch, RLES, NCRO, 1/12]
A construction worker was slightly injured yesterday, January 28th, when part of the Military Road bridge being rebuilt over Beach Drive suddenly collapsed. Five months ago, a steel support structure over the same bridge collapsed without warning, killing one worker and severely injuring another. The worker injured yesterday was treated at a local hospital and released. A one-mile stretch of Beach Drive will be closed for several days as workers remove concrete and debris. OSHA and city engineers will examine the site. [Bill Lynch, RLES, NCRO, 1/29]
On January 29th, part of the Military Road bridge being rebuilt over Beach Drive suddenly collapsed. Five months previously, a steel support structure over the same bridge had collapsed without warning, killing one worker and severely injuring another. OSHA and city engineers subsequently examined the site to determine the cause of the accident. They found that the contractor had cut a load-bearing support, which caused the collapse of a portion of the structure with him on it. The road was reopened two days later after the removal of concrete and debris. [Bill Lynch, RLES, NCRO, 2/6]
During the period from last September to this February, there were five armed robberies in Fort Totten Park, administered by Rock Creek Park. On February 19th, Park Police detectives culminated a prolonged investigation of these robberies with the arrest of C.O., 20, of Silver Spring, Maryland. C.O. has been charged with the most recent robbery, and is believed to have been connected with the others. Other suspects are being sought. [Dale Dickerhoof, CIB, USPP, 2/20; Bill Lynch, RLES, NCRO, 2/20]
On February 25th, I.E. of Silver Spring, Maryland, was found guilty in superior court of first degree sexual abuse and kidnapping for a May 24, 1996, assault on a 23-year-old female in Rock Creek Park. I.E. was arrested by Park Police detectives on March 5, 1997, following an extensive investigation. I.E. faces a sentence of from 30 years to life. Sentencing is scheduled for April 17th. [Bill Lynch, RLES, NCRO, 2/27]
P.C. and D.O., both from Virginia, were killed in a two-vehicle accident on the parkway on February 27th. P.C.'s vehicle was heading north when he lost control and it crossed the center line and struck a local news van head on. Two other passengers in P.C.'s vehicle and two occupants of the news van were treated for non-life threatening injuries. Park Police detectives are investigating. [Bill Lynch, RLES, NCRO, 3/6]
In early January, Park Police officers arrested M.J. for breaking into the auto shop at the Brentwood maintenance facility. Following his arrest, M.J. confessed to previous burglaries at Brentwood and to other break-ins in the neighborhood. On March 12th, he pled guilty to burglary and felony property destruction charges in superior court. He will be sentenced on April 23rd. [Bill Lynch, RLES, NCRO, 3/20]
Park Police officer Bill Leblanc came upon a vehicle parked in violation of the park's darkness closure just after midnight on April 18th. He found that the juvenile female occupant was being assaulted against her will. Leblanc arrested the 23-year-old man and charged him with second degree sexual abuse. [Henry Berberich, RLES, NCRO, 4/21]
On May 12th, Arlington County police offiers pursued a stolen vehicle into East Potomac Park. Park Police officers joined the pursuit. The vehicle struck a Park Police cruiser as it left the park, then continued up Rock Creek Parkway. The driver subsequently lost control and struck a southbound vehicle. All three occupants of the stolen car fled on foot; the operator and one passenger were captured, but the third person remains at large. [Henry Berberich, RLES, NCRO, 5/13]
On June 24th, Park Police officers received a report of a partially submerged vehicle with someone trapped inside in Rock Creek. Two officers entered the creek and removed the male driver's body. It appears that the driver went off the road the previous night during a storm. [Henry Berberich, RLES, NCRO, 6/25]
On the evening of July 5th, Park Police received a report that a person had jumped from Cathedral Avenue onto Rock Creek Parkway about 100 feet below. The victim, who was in his mid-20s, was taken to George Washington Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. He had no identification and remains unidentified. Three witnesses saw the man jump. [Henry Berberich, RLES, NCRO, 7/7]
On Wednesday, July 8th, J.R. was assaulted by a man with a knife in Asbury Park within Rock Creek Park. He was taken to a hospital and treated for a laceration on his hand. USPP officer David Leguillo's investigation led him to a man named O.C., who Leguillo had talked to the day before at the same location. When Leguillo contacted him, O.C. still had the knife and a bloody shirt in his possession. O.C., who has no fixed address, was transported back to the scene of the assault, where he was positively identified by two witnesses. O.C. was arrested and charged with assault with a deadly weapon. [Henry Berberich, RLES, NCRO, 7/13]
The body of 28-year-old C.M. was found by a passerby in a wooded area of the park near Georgetown University on August 2nd. C.M. had been struck by a blunt object. Foul play was evident. The incident is being investigated as a homicide by city police. [Henry Berberich, RLES, NCSO, 8/4]
Park Police officer W.A. Leblanc was working radar on Piney Branch Parkway when he heard several gunshots emanating from the area of 14th and Taylor Streets NW. Leblanc responded and saw F.A.-M. holding a gun and pointing it at F.R.-C., who was lying on the ground. F.A.-M. fled when he saw Leblanc approaching, but was apprehended after a short foot chase. The case is being investigated by city police. [Henry Berberich, RLES, NCSO, 8/3]
On December 10th, Park Police officer Wayne Humberson stopped a vehicle near the park. As the vehicle was stopping, Humberson saw the passenger make a furtive gesture toward the floor. Humberson and a city officer approached the car. As he was asking the driver to get out of the vehicle, the passenger jumped out and fled, but was caught and subdued after a short pursuit. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of about 200 grams of suspected crack cocaine with a street value of $20,000. K.E. and J.H. were arrested on charges of possession of drugs with intent to distribute. [Henry Berberich, RLES, NCSO, 12/21]
A woman was sexually assaulted in the wooded area on the east side of Rock Creek Parkway around 4:15 a.m. on December 10th. Four days later, the victim called Park Police and reported that the man who'd assaulted her was in Dupont Circle. Officers responded and arrested P.L.R. [Henry Berberich, RLES, NCSO, 12/21]
An altercation which occurred at a D.C. nightclub on the evening of December 26th ended up in a shooting just off Rock Creek Parkway. The principals in the fight left the nightclub in separate vehicles and headed down the parkway. Gunfire erupted after these and other vehicles got into an accident at 23rd Street and Independence Avenue. The victim was shot in the back as he attempted to flee from one of the cars. He has been hospitalized and is in serious but stable condition. According to witnesses, two other vehicles were struck by gunfire, but the drivers declined to stick around. No additional reports have yet been filed. [Henry Berberich, RLES, NCSO, 12/28]
Park Police officer M. J. Williams was stopped by a citizen just before 3 a.m. on January 2nd and advised of an accident. Williams drove to the scene, where he discovered an overturned 1997 Toyota in Rock Creek, with only its rear undercarriage visible above the water. As soon as other officers arrived on scene, Williams and sergeant R. Egan donned life vests and employed a safety line to enter the waters of the creek to try and locate any occupants. Visibility was poor, with ice forming. They found M.H., 31, unconscious in the Toyota and brought him to shore. CPR was begun and he was taken to a local hospital by city medics. He was pronounced dead on arrival. Egan and Williams were treated for hypothermia and released. M.H. was a staff member at the Mauritanian embassy. The accident investigation revealed that M.H. had been driving southbound on the parkway when he swerved around another vehicle and lost control. The Toyota then crossed the grassy embankment and overturned in the creek. [Richard Murphy, USPP, NCR, 1/14]
On July 19, 1998, Park Police officers arrested R.G. for indecent exposure following an incident in which he exposed himself to two juveniles along the southern end of Rock Creek Parkway. Park Police investigators obtained a search warrant for property belonging to R.G.; several items used in deviant sexual crimes were recovered. A check of R.G.'s criminal record revealed numerous arrests for sexual crimes throughout the Washington metropolitan area and in Massachusetts. On January 19th, R.G. was found guilty on two counts of lewd and indecent exposure and sentenced to two years' confinement. [Henry Berberich, RLES, NCSO, 3/5]
A jogger discovered an unconscious male in the park at 6:20 a.m. on June 17th. The man was suffering from head injuries and was taken to a hospital. At the time of the report, he had not yet regained consciousness and was listed in critical condition. Although he possessed no identification, investigators were able to identify him and notify family members via a prescription vial found at the scene. The investigation continues. [Rich Murphy, Assistant Commander, CIB, USPP, 6/25]
The USPP traffic safety unit ran a sobriety checkpoint on the parkway from 8 p.m. on October 30th to 4 a.m. on the following morning. The operation led to a dozen arrests for driving while impaired, two arrests for crack cocaine possession, and the recovery of a small amount of marijuana. A Park Police blood alcohol testing vehicle was used to facilitate the processing of impaired drivers. About a thousand Washington Wizards basketball tickets were given to unimpaired, safe drivers. The tickets were donated by the Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP). [Sgt. R. MacLean, USPP, NCR, 11/3]
On January 28th, members of the USPP tactical crime unit from Rock Creek Station served a narcotics search warrant at a residence in the city. During the search, they discovered two M-1000 explosive devices wrapped individually in duct tape. The duct tape was securing items to the explosives (such as razor blades) which would act as shrapnel upon detonation. The city police emergency ordnance disposal unit dismantled the devices. An occupant of the residence was charged with possession of explosive devices. Officers also recovered 64 rounds of assorted caliber ammunition and narcotics paraphernalia. [Sgt. R. MacLean, USPP, NCR, 1/31]
On the evening of February 18th, USPP officer Jeff Hiltner heard a gunshot while patrolling in the area of Carter Barron Amphitheater. As he drove up to the lone vehicle in the parking lot, the driver pulled out and fled. A pursuit ensued that ended several blocks away. Two rifles and ammunition were recovered from the vehicle; both occupants were arrested for weapons violations. The passenger also had an outstanding DC superior court warrant against him for assault with a deadly weapon. [Sgt. R. MacLean, USPP, NCR, 3/6]
On March 29th, Park Police officers executed a search warrant at a residence in Washington. They arrested three people on drug charges and seized 122 grams of suspected crack cocaine, 26 grams of marijuana, two grams of cocaine, miscellaneous drug paraphernalia, and $8,400 in cash. [Sgt. R. MacLean, USPP, NCR, 4/10]
An unknown toxic substance was released into Rock Creek by an industrial plant in Silver Spring, Maryland, some time around May 18th. The unknown substance flowed downstream and entered the District of Columbia and the waters of Rock Creek Park. The release has resulted in the death of approximately 100,000 to 150,000 fish according to the Maryland Department of Environment. Over nine miles of Rock Creek in the park have been affected. The superintendent has issued an emergency closure order for public health purposes for Rock Creek, prohibiting all human and pet contact with water in the creek and closing the creek to fishing. An interagency investigative team is attempting to locate the source of the release and to identify the substance that was released. The park's resource management staff will be working with DC fisheries personnel and WASO to contact a resource damage assessment. Media interest has been high. (Einar Olsen, RCR, NCRO, 5/22)
An unknown toxic substance was released into Rock Creek by an industrial plant in Silver Spring, Maryland, some time around May 18th. The unknown substance flowed downstream and entered the District of Columbia and the waters of Rock Creek Park, killing over 100,000 fish. On May 22nd, lab analysis confirmed that the substance was the insecticide cypermethrin, which is highly toxic to aquatic life and can be toxic to humans in high concentrations. This information greatly aided the investigative team in identifying potential sources of the spill. On May 26th, the multi-agency investigative team served a search warrant on Pied Piper Pest Control in Silver Spring, Maryland, to obtain additional information and evidence. As of May 29th, Rock Creek remained closed pending assurances that the levels of insecticide in the stream have returned to safe levels. It's expected that it will take several years for aquatic life to recover in the stream. Investigative and damage assessment efforts continue. Media interest remains high. (Einar Olsen, RCR, NCRO, 5/30)
Park Police officers investigated the report of a suspicious person near the Kennedy Center on the afternoon of June 14th. When an officer approached him, the man jumped into the Potomac River, then began struggling to stay afloat. Captain Henry Berberich, commander of Central District, entered the water and pulled him to shore. The man was taken to an area hospital for observation. [Sgt. R. MacLean, USPP, NCR, 6/15]
A tractor trailer traveling northbound on Rock Creek Parkway struck the K Street overpass on October 18th. Although the bridge was not affected, the trailer was severely damaged. The parkway was closed while the truck and trailer were removed. All lanes were subsequently reopened. This is the third such incident to occur this year involving a truck striking the same overpass. [Sgt. R. MacLean, USPP, NCR, 10/18]
On May 18, 2000, the pesticide Prevail, which contains cypermethrin as its active ingredient, was released into Rock Creek from an industrial area in Silver Spring, Maryland. The highly toxic pesticide killed most fish and invertebrates down an eight-mile stretch of Rock Creek, including the five-mile section in Rock Creek Park. A multi-agency investigation led by EPA's Criminal Investigation Division followed. On November 7th, the U.S. Attorney's Office in Baltimore filed a criminal information against Pied Piper Pest Control, owner M.I.R., 47, and employee C.L.T., 49, for several felony and misdemeanor violations of the Clean Water Act (33 USC 1311 and 1319) and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (7 USC 1361). The investigation revealed that C.L.T. spilled some of the pesticide in the parking lot at the Pied Piper facility and washed it into a storm drain that led to Rock Creek. This was not in compliance with the labeling instructions for the pesticide; hence the FIFRA charge. The Clean Water Act prohibits discharges of pollutants into the waters of the United States without a permit. M.I.R. was charged personally because he failed to properly train and supervise C.L.T. The firm and individuals face fines up to $500,000 and imprisonment. USPP/Ranger Services investigator Jon Crichfield is representing the NPS in this case. [Einar Olsen, RCR, NCRO; USAO press release, 11/8]
On the morning of May 22nd, the Park Police received a phone call from a man who reported the discovery of a human skull in the woods in Rock Creek Park. A Park Police sergeant met the man on Broad Branch Road in Washington. He led the sergeant into the woods to the site. Park Police officers secured the area and called Metropolitan PD to investigate the death, pursuant to a standard operating procedure in place with Metro PD and the DC medical examiner. Later in the day, the ME announced that the remains were those of C.L. The Park Police have provided assistance in many ways during the investigation that has ensued, including site security, media contacts, provision of police experts to help process the scene, and provision of investigators to work with city police to check out prior cases and possible suspects. On the morning of Friday, May 31st, the last of the police tape was taken down and the area was reopened to the public. Park Police will continue to assist Metro PD with any requests that they might have. [Scott Fear, PIO, USPP, 5/31]
Interpretive ranger Ron Harvey noticed a gold Chevy Suburban parked illegally on the creek bank near historic Peirce Mill on Thursday, September 5th. Something about the vehicle struck him as odd, so he contacted the Park Police. Park Police officers found a woman in the car, smoking crack cocaine and armed with a loaded handgun. They were able to subdue the woman, who was planning to kill herself, and take her in for medical evaluation. Harvey's alert response may have helped save the woman's life. [Submitted by Laura Illige, Chief Ranger, Rock Creek Park]
On November 4, Pied Piper Pest Control and its employees were sentenced in U.S. District Court to fines and restitution totaling $50,000 for violating the Clean Water Act and Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act. On May 18, 2000, company employee Charles Thomas washed the pesticide Prevail, which contains cypermethrin, into a Pied Piper facility storm drain which drains into Rock Creek in an industrial area of Silver Spring, Maryland. The highly toxic pesticide killed fish and invertebrates in the stream, including a six-mile section in Rock Creek Park. In addition to the fines and restitution, the judge also suspended the company's license for a total of 18 weeks over the next three years. Each suspension comes at the height of the termite season. C.T. was also sentenced to two years probation and six months of home confinement. The investigation was led by EPA special agents. USPP/NCRO Ranger Services detective Jon Crichfield represented the NPS. [Submitted by Einar Olsen, Regional Chief Ranger, NCRO]
Preparations continue along the East Coast for the imminent arrival of Hurricane Isabel. Reports received as of this morning follow, from south to north:
Parks to the south of the Carolinas are all keeping a wary eye on the storm, just in case the course changes, but generally remain in a "stand by" mode. Prepared from reports submitted by Bob Vogel, Superintendent, CALO; Dann Trexler, IC, CAHA; Tom Nash, CR, COLO; Vince Santucci, CR, GWMP; Laura Illige, CI, ROCR; Einar Olsen, RCR, NCRO; Mike Hill, Superintendent, ASIS; Bill Halainen, IO, DEWA; Frank Mills, IC, STLI; and Wayne Valentine, IC, FIIS.
Despite its weakening, Hurricane Isabel remains a serious threat to portions of the northeast coastline and to nearby inland areas. Parks in those regions continue to prepare for its arrival. As a precautionary measure, one of the Service's two national Type 1 teams (JD Swed's team) will be staging in Charlotte, North Carolina, in order to be prepared to respond as needed to any park or area. A number of Type 2 teams are also on standby. Here's a rundown on the status of many of the parks in or near the storm's path (south to north):
This summary was compiled from reports submitted by Randy Coffman, DL&ES, WASO; Wouter Ketel, IC, CALO; Ann Childress, Superintendent, MOCR; Mark Hardgrover, Deputy Superintendent, CAHA; Mike Hill, Superintendent, ASIS; Duane Erwin, Chief Ranger, and Russ Whitlock, Deputy Director, WOTR; Stephen Syphax, NACE; Laura Illige, CI, ROCR; Doug Wallner, Acting Regional Chief Ranger, NERO; Wayne Valentine, IC, FIIS; Tom Nash, Chief Ranger, COLO; Charles Strickfaden, Chief Ranger, FOMC; Frank Mills, Assistant Superintendent, STLI; and Wayne Sanders, Chief of Maintenance, GEWA/THST.
Damage assessments and the organization of repair and rehabilitation operations are underway at parks throughout the Mid-Atlantic states. Assisting with and supporting these efforts are JD Swed's Type 1 team (currently relocating from Charlotte to Williamsburg), Rick Brown's Type 2 team, and Clay Jordan's Type 3 team at Shenandoah. Here's a rundown on the current status of affected parks (south to north): National Capital Area Damage was substantial throughout the DC area:
Additional reports will appear daily during recovery operations, which will likely go on for some time. Current information and essential documents from the incident management teams will be available at the IMT web page: http://www.nps.gov/fire/allrisk/. Please check if for additional details. Reports compiled from submissions by Kris Fister, IO, Type 1 IMT; Ken Garvin, SERO; Don Boucher, NCRO; Bob Martin and Doug Wallner, NERO; Mary Doll, PIO, Outer Banks Group; Wouter Ketel, IC/Chief Ranger, and Donna Tipton, PIO, CALO; Laura Joss, Superintendent, FOMC; Vidal Martinez, Superintendent, GEWA/THST; Cindy MacLeod, Superintendent, RICH/MAWA; Bob Kirby, Superintendent, PETE; Laurie Coughlan, Superintendent, HAMP; Clay Jordan, IC, Type 3 IMT, SHEN; Tom Nash, Chief Ranger, COLO; Bill Sanders, Superintendent, HOFU; Mike Hill, Superintendent, ASIS.
Yesterday's efforts focused largely on organizing incident management operations, orienting incoming personnel, obtaining equipment, and gathering important damage cost data for the regional and Washington offices. Initial recovery efforts were hampered by heavy rain that fell on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, causing new flood damage in many areas already affected by Isabel. The following reports were received from parks and regions over the past 24 hours. They are listed from south to north. This information either supplements or revises information previously reported; no effort is being made to recap earlier submissions with each new summary. Through the assistance of David Duran in the Service's National Information Systems Center in Denver, URL's are posted below for maps of three of the hardest hit parks - Cape Lookout, Cape Hatteras, and Colonial - so that readers can more easily determine referenced locations. Others will be added in the future as needed. You can zoom in or out or pan from one park to another and can also turn additional data layers on or off, e.g. National Geographic TOPO!, Relief Imagery, Flood Hazard Areas, Land Cover Imagery, etc. The sites are, respectively: http://maps2.itc.nps.gov/nps/parkatlas/jsp/atlas.jsp?zoomtopark=Cape%20Lookout%20National%20Seashore For a gallery of photos of the hurricane's effects on several parks, put together by WASO ITC's Ken Handwerger, please go to http://inside.nps.gov/ people/hurricane/. This gallery will be added to on a regular basis. Rock Creek Park The nature center is flooded. Power is back on in part of the park, but not to either the resource management or maintenance offices. Phone service is limited. All roads have reopened. About 400 trees are down in the park, and horse and foot trails are mostly impassable. The park's bike trail is open. A contract tree crew is on site. Additional reports will appear daily during recovery operations, which will likely go on for some time. Current information and essential documents from the incident management teams will be available at the IMT web page: http://www.nps.gov/fire/allrisk/. Please check if for additional details. Reports compiled from submissions by Kris Fister, IO, Type 1 IMT; Barb Stewart, IO, Type 2 IMT; Don Boucher, NCRO; Dan Davidson, Shenandoah EICC; Bob Kirby, Superintendent, PETE; Clay Jordan, IC, Type 3 IMT, SHEN; Bob Martin, Regional Chief Ranger, NERO; Russ Smith, Superintendent, FRSP; Cindy McLeod, Superintendent, RICH.
Overview Crews and other resources have been arriving at the Williamsburg ICP for JD Swed's Type 1 IMT since Wednesday, bringing the total number of personnel currently assigned to the incident to 131. Early work efforts are focused on orienting personnel to the operations, with a heavy emphasis on safety due to the increased hazards involved in tree removal operations, especially with vehicle traffic. Team members are also holding short training sessions on ICS for newly-arrived personnel, as there are many people coming to this incident with minimal previous exposure to the system. The FMSS team continues to compile and input facilities assessment information received from the 38 park units that sustained hurricane-related damage. The preliminary assessment has been 100% completed by the parks. The FMSS team members are going out to parks beginning today to conduct comprehensive condition assessments. Crews will continue work on clearing the Yorktown Battlefield tour road in Colonial NHP. Additional crews and other resources were dispatched yesterday to Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania NMP, Richmond NB and Petersburg NB to work on tree clearing and other cleanup operations. Many employees working in the parks being managed in this incident are still without power at home. These same employees have been working for extended hours with little or no time off for over a week. A three-person Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) team was scheduled to arrive in Williamsburg yesterday. They will make arrangements to provide assistance to park employees dealing with incident-related stress Rick Brown's Type 2 team, which is focusing on four sites in what's being called the North Carolina Seashore Area, is divided into two branches. The Outer Banks Group branch has four divisions - one for Wright Brothers and Fort Raleigh, one for Bodie Island, one for Hatteras Island, and one for Ocracoke Island; the Cape Lookout branch has two divisions - one for Core Banks and one for Portsmouth Village. Principal problems confronting personnel on this operation have to do with the time and distances between locations and the amount of travel required. Operations are underway in all divisions. Park Updates The following reports were received from parks and regions over the past 24 hours. They are listed from south to north. This information either supplements or revises information previously reported; no effort is being made to recap earlier submissions with each new summary.
Additional Information
Reports compiled from submissions by Kris Fister, IO, Type 1 IMT; Barb Stewart, IO, Type 2 IMT; Karl Merchant, Plans Chief, Type 2 IMT; Dave Lattimore, Plans Chief, Type 1 IMT; Don Boucher, NCRO; Zeke Seabright, NCR Communications Center; Clay Jordan, IC, Type 3 IMT, SHEN; Bob Martin, Regional Chief Ranger, NERO; Cindy McLeod, Superintendent, RICH; Mike Litterst, PIO, COLO.
As thousands of visitors come to Washington to pay their respects to President Ronald W. Reagan, National Capital Region staff quickly, yet quietly, pulled together and played a large role in helping assure that the ceremonies in the nation's capital went off without a hitch. National Capital Region redirected 10 law enforcement and 30 interpretive rangers from other NCR parks to work in various locations on the National Mall and associated memorials. Staff from C&O Canal, Catoctin, George Washington Memorial Parkway, Harpers Ferry, Manassas, Rock Creek Park, President's Park and Wolf Trap pitched in to help the staff at the Mall. Staff at the Mall directed all logistical support, shifting NPS personnel to sites where staffing was needed most. Law enforcement rangers were assigned specific locations on the Mall to help with crowd control for the casket transfer at 16th Street and Constitution Avenue as well as the caisson procession along Constitution Avenue to Pennsylvania Avenue. Interpretive rangers — many of whom volunteered to work the overnight shift — helped in a variety of different positions and capacities, including helping with the crowds queuing in line to file past President Reagan's flag-draped casket in the Capitol. Three separate queuing locations — all on National Park Service property — were set aside for the public to wait prior to viewing President Reagan's casket. They were cordoned off with police "bicycle racks" and/or rope and posts, forming zigzag patterns to best utilize the space. These areas include locations at 3rd Street and Jefferson Drive, 4th Street and Jefferson Drive and immediately west of 7th Street between Madison and Jefferson Drives. Together, the three areas had room for about 50,000 people to gather. Maintenance staff from the Mall helped secure fencing along Constitution Avenue, removed all trash cans, and covered or secured other containers on the Mall and along the procession route. The maintenance staff provided additional fencing and other barricade devices to the U.S. Park Police and other agencies. About 20 employees worked from 2 p.m.on Monday through 10 a.m.on Tuesday in preparation for the security sweep at 6 a.m.on Wednesday. NCR and the Mall provided 80 portable restrooms between 3rd Street and 7th Street on the Mall and arranged for 1,000 cases of water to be used for first aid (largely rehydration) purposes. A medical tent was erected nearby in the center of the Mall at 7th Street, with doctors and other medical personnel working in shifts around the clock, beginning on Wednesday morning. As of Friday, three patients had been transported to local hospitals, none with life-threatening injuries. In addition to helping with crowd control and arranging for medical services, Mall staff coordinated EMS, including AED's, oxygen, medical bags and basic jump kits. Lost and found services were also performed, as groups of visitors separated from one another were reunited. A 14-person maintenance staff from National Capital Parks-East guaranteed that the motor route along Suitland Parkway from Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland into Washington was mowed and manicured. The Park Police were the lead security agency on all NPS property, joining the other principal agencies involved in funeral security — the Secret Service, Metropolitan Police Department, the United States Capital Police and the Military District of Washington. Other local Washington area police agencies supplied personnel to help with the effort. Park Police responsibilities were numerous and varied. Officers provided escorts for all visiting dignitaries, escorted motorcades, and supplied officers to patrol the crowds gathering on the Mall queuing to enter the Capitol. On Wednesday, they joined with the above noted agencies in providing the motorcade that escorted the hearse, Mrs. Reagan and other family members down the Suitland Parkway, over the Potomac River, up the George Washington Memorial Parkway, over Memorial Bridge and down Constitution Avenue. They secured the area where the casket was transferred from the hearse to the caisson, then provided 150 officers as part of the security detail along the section of Constitution from 17th to 15th Streets. On Friday, Park Police officers assisted with the funeral motorcade. Other Park Police officers, rangers and officers from 40 local enforcement agencies rendered honors as the motorcade passed the World War II Memorial. It continued on to National Cathedral for the funeral ceremony. Officers then assisted with the motorcade from the cathedral to Andrews AFB. Also assisting in the management of this major event were the city's health, emergency management, fire, EMS and publics works divisions, the U. S. Public Health Service and the Red Cross. NCR's Regional Communications Office and the Office of Park Programs coordinated countless news media requests, among which was a nine-camera television network "pool" feed that sent live images to all network television stations in the United States and to international broadcasters. The Communications Office also arranged a still photograph "pool," with distribution of photo images to photo editors literally around the world.[Submitted by Bill Line, Public Affairs, NCRO; Commander, Planning and Development Unit, USPP HQ]
On Friday, September 2nd, the United States Park Police Central District, in cooperation with the USPP Traffic Safety Unit, conducted a traffic safety checkpoint on Rock Creek Parkway. The checkpoint was operational at 11 p.m. and ran until approximately 4 a.m. Officers made 100 traffic contacts over the five-hour period. Six persons were arrested - three for DUI, one for speed in excess of 30 over the posted limit, one for failing to have an operator's permit, and one for operating an unregistered vehicle. Officers also issued 78 citations for speed violations and another ten citations for various vehicle offenses. This operation was conducted to coincide with the "Smooth Operator" program, which promotes safe driving in the National Capital Area. [Lt. Philip Beck, USPP]
On Thursday, March 22nd, off-duty US Park Police officer Mark Asmussen was driving on Rock Creek Parkway south of Shoreham Hill when he saw what appeared to be evidence of a recent vehicle crash. Asmussen stopped and found that a vehicle had overturned and was partially submerged in the creek. He notified Park Police dispatch, then entered the creek to check the vehicle along with a citizen and FBI agent Catherine Hanna, who'd also stopped to help. The trio waded out into chest deep water. Asmussen reached into the water near the driver's door, felt an arm, and pulled out the driver. She was conscious and reported that she was the vehicle's only occupant. Asmussen brought her to shore with the help of the others and ensured that she was breathing and stable. On-duty Park Police officers soon arrived and took charge of the response. [Sergeant Robert Lachance, Public Information Officer]
J.K.B., 41, originally of Danville, Virginia, was sentenced to 16 years in prison for first degree sexual abuse in superior court in Washington, DC, last Friday. He will also be required to register as a sex offender for life following his incarceration. In the early morning hours of July 4, 2003, a woman was sexually assaulted in the park near Adams Mill and Klingle Roads. She told Park Police officers that she was walking home when she was physically attacked, dragged into the woods, and sexually assaulted. Her assailant then fled with her purse. The woman was able to flag down a cab and make her way home, where she reported the assault to police. Officers canvassed the area but were unable to find the man despite a detailed description provided by the woman. Items of evidence with DNA on them were collected and provided to the FBI's DNA laboratory in Quantico, Virginia. In May, 2004, the FBI isolated male DNA which positively matched J.K.B.'s DNA. He was arrested shortly thereafter. On the eve of the trial, J.K.B. pled guilty to first degree sexual abuse. The U.S. attorney praised the diligent and persistent work off USPP detective Michelle Ludwick, USPP mobile crime lab technicians Raul Matias and Shelley Hill, and the numerous USPP and Metro PD officers who assisted in investigating this case. [Sergeant Robert Lachance, Public Information Officer]
Pope Benedict XVI made his first trip to the United States as head of the Catholic Church last week. The Pope's events in Washington included a meeting with President Bush and other encounters with interreligious and ecumenical representatives, the academic world and the Catholic faithful. It was Pope Benedict's eighth foreign trip and the first papal visit to the United States since Pope John Paul II made a 30-hour visit to St. Louis in 1999. The United States Park Police provided substantial support to this visit, which affected a number of parks within National Capital Region. The Pope arrived in Washington on Tuesday, April 15th, and departed for New York City on Friday, April 18th. All divisions in the Washington metropolitan area were utilized in providing escort and route protection during the entire visit. The motorcade routes had considerable impact on the Suitland and Rock Creek Parkways. A significant event occurred on Wednesday, April 16th, on the South Lawn at the White House, which was followed by a parade that began at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue and traversed Pennsylvania Avenue, Rock Creek Parkway, and Massachusetts Avenue. The parade required numerous Park Police officers to secure the route on NPS jurisdiction and as part of the escort. Officers also monitored the several groups that had been issued permits to demonstrate in Lafayette Park, which coincided with Pope Benedict XVI's visit and parade. [Sergeant Robert Lachance, Public Affairs Officer]
While interviewing a driver during a traffic stop in Rock Creek Park on April 16th, Park Police officer Andrew Watson detected the odor of marijuana inside the vehicle. He also found that the driver was operating on a suspended license. The driver was arrested. During a search of the vehicle, Watson found seven pounds of marijuana and about 22 grams of cocaine, which together had an estimated street value of over $33,000. The driver has been charged with possession with intent to distribute narcotics. [Sergeant Robert Lachance, Public Information Officer]
On Wednesday, June 4th, a series of powerful thunderstorms passed through the National Capital Region, prompting the National Weather Service to issue 70 severe thunderstorm, marine, and tornado warnings in the Baltimore/Washington area. The storms left over 500,000 homes and businesses with out power and spawned four tornados. While none of the tornados struck any parks in NCR, virtually all NCR areas suffered damage from downed trees and power lines. The following is a synopsis of the preliminary storm impacts. The full extent of the damage may not be know for several days. Rock Creek Park - Numerous trees are down, but no structural damage or injuries have been reported. [Don Boucher, Emergency Services Coordinator, NCRO]
Park Police officers Eric Basek and Andrew Watson were on patrol of Rock Creek Park just after 2 a.m. on June 5th when they heard a series of gun shots from within the park. The officers immediately headed towards the sound of the gunfire to investigate. While searching Beach Drive, they came upon two vehicles and three males in Grove 10. The officers took the three men into custody and made the scene safe. During the on-scene investigation, one of the men admitted he was firing a rifle and told the officers that it was in the trunk of one of the vehicles. An Armalite M-15 rifle, high capacity magazines, and ammunition were recovered. The man was arrested and charged with District of Columbia violations. The officers in this case are to be commended for their brave and quick response. By relying on their good judgment and police training, they were able to safely arrest the man without injury to themselves, to him, or to the public. [Sergeant Rob Lachance, Public Affairs Officer]
On the morning of Tuesday, May 27th, a woman who was exercising on the trails adjacent to Beach Drive crossed Bluff Bridge, a pedestrian overpass over the creek, then stopped on the west end of the bridge. As she bent down to adjust her shoes, a man approached from behind and placed a knife at her throat. The woman began yelling and he fled from the area. The woman then ran towards Beach Drive, flagged down a motorist, and was able to contact the police. USPP investigators are searching for a Hispanic male with dark complexion, in his mid-20s, approximately 5'5" tall, thin build, with short black hair. He spoke broken English. At the time of the crime, he was wearing a white t-shirt with cut off sleeves and blue jeans. [Sergeant Robert Lachance, US Park Police]
Ranger Ken Ferebee was tracking a box turtle outfitted with a radio transmitter on July 14th when it lead him to a small marijuana field that appeared to be actively tended. The field was in Rock Creek Park near the Maryland State line. Ferebee notified the Park Police. Officer Jeffrey Bloch and investigator David Hurley set up surveillance on the area. Bloch spent several hours in the woods watching the field from a concealed location. Bloch and Hurley subsequently saw a man caring for the approximately 10 marijuana plants in the field. They investigated, identified him, and applied for a warrant for his arrest. On July 30th, members of the Park Police Narcotics and Vice Unit, the Central District Crime Patrol Unit and Rock Creek Station arrested 19-year-old I.J. Based on this information, detectives from the Montgomery County Police Narcotics Unit secured a search warrant for I.J.'s residence in Chevy Chase, Maryland. I.J. awaits extradition to the District of Columbia on the charge of possession of marijuana with intent to distribute. The turtle has now been affectionately named by the Park Police as Officer Mary Jane Hempfield. [Lt. Roxanne Brown-Ankney, US Park Police]
Just before midnight on Sunday, September 21st, the United States Park Police were notified of an armed robbery that had occurred at Meridian Hill. Officers met with the victim, who said that he'd been sitting on the steps at 15th and Chapin Streets when he was approached by two men, one of whom showed a firearm and told the man to walk with him. The victim was brought into a bathroom and robbed of personal belongings. A second person was in the bathroom. The two robbers ordered them to remain in the bathroom, then fled. The victim came out of the bathroom after a few minutes and heard a shot fired. He then flagged down a police officer. Detectives are investigating the incident. [Robert Lachance, Public Affairs Officer]
A park maintenance worker came upon a suspicious looking device in a playing field north of Morrow Drive early on the morning of October 1st and notified the Park Police. The responding officer determined that it could be a hand grenade. A perimeter was established and nearby residents were directed to evacuate the area. The Metropolitan Police explosive ordnance unit responded, examined the device, and determined that it was in fact a grenade. They contacted a military explosive ordnance unit and asked for assistance. The grenade was recovered, rendered safe, and found to be real but without any explosives inside. It was turned over to the Park Police. The surrounding area was checked and the scene was cleared. The incident is currently under investigation. [Sergeant Robert Lachance, Public Information Officer]
On Saturday, October 4th, Park Police officers responded to a report of an assault at Meridian Hill. When they arrived, they found a Metro Police Department (MPD) officer on scene with two people. The MPD officer said that he'd seen the two fighting while patrolling the area. When he intervened, one of the two men, identified as Keith Austin, told him that he was a police officer and displayed a pair of handcuffs. Both were detained. Austin then told the officer that he was a police informant. He was also carrying a flashlight, walkie-talkies and a radio. The other man reported that he'd been drinking with two friends at Meridian Hill when Austin approached them, identified himself as an officer, displayed a pair of handcuffs on his belt, and threatened to arrest them. A verbal altercation ensued that culminated with Austin grabbing one of the man's friends. That lead to a fight. The trio then fled, with Austin pursuing the man and attempting to take a bag containing a camera from him. That led to another fight, at which point the MPD officer arrived. USPP officer Danny Berberich arrested Austin, who faces several charges, including impersonating a police officer and attempted robbery. Meanwhile, other responding USPP officers located the man's two companions. One of them was approached by officer Mike Peer, but refused to speak to him. She then attempted to leave and had to be detained. She refused to identify herself and became physically aggressive, kicking one officer in the groin and also kicking another assisting officer. She was arrested and faces a number of charges, including assaulting police officers. The third person, identified as D.C., was contacted by officer TC Gordon. When Gordon attempted to interview Carter, he refused to comply with the officer's commands and appeared agitated. When Gordon displayed his baton, D.C. fled, with Gordon pursuing. D.C. ran towards one of the officers dealing with the unidentified woman in an aggressive manner, so Gordon employed his baton to stop him from assaulting the officer. D.C. was arrested and will be charged for a number of offenses, including assaulting a police officer. [Sergeant Robert Lachance, US Park Police]
On the morning of October 2nd, Park Police officers Jeff McKeever and Robert Rowlett checked out a report of illegal dumping in Glover Archbold Park, part of the Rock Creek Park system. A witness told them that men driving two vehicles had been dumping mattresses in the park. As the officers were investigating, one of the involved vehicles returned to the location. The two people inside, who said they worked for a local company, implicated themselves in the dumping incident along with two others. The officers contacted a company supervisor at the work site, who instructed the other two people identified in the case to return to the scene of the crime. When they arrived, they were also arrested. The four face felony dumping charges in the District of Columbia. [Sergeant Robert Lachance, US Park Police]
On Sunday, October 12th, the Park Police were notified of a shooting that had occurred in Meridian Hill Park, part of the Rock Creek Park system. Five men were in the northwest section of the park around 9 p.m. when they were approached by three other men, who spoke with them then left. While walking south, one of the three men turned and fired a shot in the direction of the others, striking one man in the right forearm. The assailant and his companions then fled. The wounded man was taken to the hospital, where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. An investigation is underway. [Sergeant Robert Lachance, US Park Police]
Park Police officers were dispatched to a report of a sexual assault near Grove 19 in the early hours of Saturday, November 1st. Two women there reported that they'd been picked up by three men in their late 20s near Columbia Road and were promised a ride to Chinatown. They were instead taken to the park. When they got there, the women fled, but were caught. The men were in the process of attempting to rape them when they were scared off, possibly by sirens in the area, and drove off in an unknown direction. The women used a cell phone to call 911, but were not able to tell the dispatcher where they were located. Park Police and Metro PD officers were searching for them when they called again around 3:30 a.m. and were subsequently found near the grove. USPP Criminal Investigation Branch detectives are investigating. [Sgt. Robert Lachance]
Park Police officers received a report of a fight in progress at the intersection of 17th Street and Independence Avenue Southwest on the afternoon of August 4th. Witnesses advised responding officers that shots might have been fired from a vehicle at that intersection. Although evidence at the scene confirmed the report, neither the vehicle nor its occupants were still at the scene. The vehicle in question was identified as a white Hyundai with New York tags traveling toward Rock Creek Parkway. A firearm and other potential evidentiary items were found in the travel lanes of Rock Creek Parkway in the area of the Kennedy Center. As a result, street closures were put into effect on the parkway and the items were collected as potential evidence. At approximately 5 p.m., Park Police officers located and pursued a vehicle matching the description of the suspect vehicle. The operator and sole occupant of the Hyundai was apprehended and identified as M.H., 30, of Washington, DC. He was charged with fleeing to elude law enforcement. A second man was located, questioned, and released without charges. His identity will not be released as he is being treated as a witness. Detectives are actively pursuing leads in an attempt to identify a third involved person. Investigators have determined that there was an altercation between several people, all of whom were passengers in the the Hyundai. As a result, at least one shot was fired, which shattered the passenger side rear window. [Lelani Woods, Public Affairs Officer]
As of today, the government has been shut down for 26 days, a new record for shutdowns. The huge sign that appeared recently on the side of the federal building in San Francisco about sums up the perspective of federal workers regarding this ongoing fiasco — "Sorry, We're Shut Down. Tantrum In Progress." Here's a summary of media stories about its impacts on the national parks that have appeared over the past week, grouped under four headings. Washington (DC) Parks — The NPS has announced that it's resuming maintenance services in Washington-area parks, including the National Mall, George Washington Memorial Parkway and Rock Creek Park. It will also reopen several bathrooms at sites around the Mall. The Service has not collected trash, worked on roads, or attended to sanitation services since the shutdown began. The money is coming from fee revenues "from national parks across the country." Source: Mikaela Lefrak, WAMU News.
A boy died on May 1st when a large tree branch fell on him on or near a trail in a rugged area of Rock Creek Park in Northwest Washington. The boy, whose age was given as between three and six, was hiking with a relative when the incident occurred. They were along the Soapstone Valley Trail, located on a tributary that juts west from the park. Rock Creek Park is overseen by the Service, but D.C. police assumed responsibility for the case because it handles death investigations in the District. Source: Peter Hermann, Washington Post.
On February 25, the NPS announced that routine white-tailed deer disease samplings in several DC-area parks have revealed that some deer are positive for the virus that causes COVID-19. Thus far, positive samplings by the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and Pennsylvania State University researchers have been found at Catoctin Mountain Park, Rock Creek Park, Monocacy National Battlefield, and Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. The NPS expects they'll see similar results at Antietam National Battlefield and Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that the risk of getting COVID-19 from animals in the U.S., including wildlife, is low. The NPS donates all suitable meat from its deer management operations to local food banks, and though there is no evidence that humans can get COVID-19 through handling or eating game meat, the NPS has contacted local food banks to discuss their venison donations. Source: WUSA9
On April 10, the Carter Barron Amphitheater stage caught fire. D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services officials said that the fire burned underneath the stage, but the cause has not yet been identified. They were able to extinguish the flames. The amphitheater has been closed since 2017 due to structural issues, and the NPS is working to secure funding to design and rehabilitate the venue. It remains closed to the public. Source: WTOP February 22, 2023 U.S. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) wrote an official letter to the NPS, requesting an investigation into possible soil and groundwater contamination at Fort Totten Park. In 2020, a World War I chemical weapon was found on the Fort Totten Trail, and she had requested an investigation at the time, but later found out that only a partial investigation was completed. In the letter, she cited an NPS study that found elevated levels of arsenic in excess of the Environmental Protection Agency's "generic regional screening levels" for residential and industrial soil in an area around a toxic soil dump. Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Zachary Ammerman noted that the NPS had only tested a small portion of the park and that there are concerns that toxic soil is more prevalent in the park, putting residents at potential risk. Source: WUSA9
On March 15 around 1:40 am, U.S. Park Police initiated a traffic stop with an SUV on Rock Creek Parkway, south of Virginia Avenue. The SUV did not stop, and per agency policies, the officers did not pursue the vehicle. Several minutes later, the fleeing SUV collided with another vehicle, a sedan, near P Street NW. Others on scene attempted to help those involved in the crash. U.S. Park Police responded to the accident and declared three individuals from the sedan deceased upon arrival, aged 42, 23, and 22. The two individuals from the SUV were transported to the hospital - one with injuries considered life-threatening and the other with non-life threatening injuries. An inquiry by Fox 5 to the Washington, D.C., Department of Motor Vehicles revealed that the SUV had 44 outstanding tickets worth $12,300, with 43 of those for speeding violations. The U.S. Park Police is working with the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia on the investigation, and they have asked the public for any information they may have regarding the incident. Source: United States Park Police, Fox 5
On March 22, a fire was reported on the north slope of Piney Branch Parkway near Beach Drive NW. U.S. Park Police closed Piney Branch at 17th Street and at Beach Drive. DC Fire contained and extinguished the fire at 2 acres. No personal property was damaged. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Source: Rock Creek Park
On April 18, an NPS employee found two "metal canisters" in a large mound of soil in Fort Totten Park, which caused the park to be closed temporarily for the U.S. Army to respond and remove the canisters. The mound of soil looked like it had been "pushed into the park from the road." The Army will investigate the canisters and its contents at Marine Corps Base Quantico. The area around the discovery will remain partially closed out of an abundance of caution until more is learned about the canisters. Fort Totten was built during the Civil War and there is concern about the potential for unexploded ordnances. Source: Miami Herald
An area of Fort Totten Park remains closed since an NPS employee found two metal canisters on-site (see Coalition Report 4/26/23). The U.S. Army was able to positively identify them as WWII-era munitions and their initial assessment determined that the munitions require further analysis to ensure safety in the area. "No Trespassing" signs have been installed and fencing and barriers will go up soon. The majority of the park remains open; the closed area is east of Fort Totten Drive, south of Gallatin Street/Metropolitan Branch Trail and north of Brookland Ave NE/Farragut St. Source: Civil War Defenses of Washington
On May 22, the U.S. Park Police arrested a 43-year-old for their involvement in a March 15, 2023, crash on Rock Creek Parkway that killed three occupants in one of the vehicles (see 3/22/23 Coalition Report). The individual was charged with second degree murder. Source: U.S. Park Police
On May 14, an off-leash dog attacked a wild beaver near Boulder Bridge. The beaver was severely hurt and had to be euthanized. The owner was not fined for the incident. The NPS reminds visitors that dogs are required to be on leash in the park. Source: The Washington Post
On November 9, the NPS gave an update on the ongoing investigation of World War I-era munitions at Fort Totten Park (see 4/26/23 and 5/10/23 Coalition Reports). The two metal canisters found in April were identified and assessed for hazardous material by the U.S. Army's Material Assessment Review Board, which found that neither munition posed a hazard to human health. The area of Fort Totten Park remains closed and fenced with "no trespassing" signs, as there may be further munitions in the area. The NPS and Army are seeking funding to conduct a comprehensive investigation of the park. Source: Rock Creek Park | |