U.S. Park Police officer fatally shoots 17-year-old who was allegedly driving stolen car in D.C.

WASHINGTON (TCD) -- A U.S. Park Police officer reportedly shot and killed a 17-year-old over the weekend who allegedly stole a car and fled from law enforcement.

According to a statement, on Saturday, March 18, at 8:50 a.m., the Metropolitan D.C. Police Department requested assistance at 34th Street and Baker Street NE regarding a stolen vehicle. A U.S. Park Police sergeant and officer arrived at the scene, and the officer got into the car as they attempted to detain the driver. The driver fled, causing the sergeant to get dragged by the vehicle.

U.S. Park Police said the officer inside the car "gave verbal commands for the driver to stop," but the teen allegedly refused. Sgt. Thomas Twiname said in a news briefing the officer was "trapped in the vehicle and unable to get out of the car."

The officer discharged his weapon and "rendered aid immediately," though the 17-year-old driver died. A firearm was found inside the car.

Both the officer and sergeant were transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The Washington Post reports D.C. Police received a call about a suspicious car that was running, but the driver appeared to be sleeping. Officers ran the license plate and learned it was stolen, so they called for backup.

The victim has been identified as Dalaneo Martin.

Martin’s mother reportedly told police, "You’re supposed to protect us. He was only 17!"

The Metropolitan D.C. Police Department Internal Affairs Division is conducting a review, and the two officers involved have been placed on administrative leave.

MORE:

• United States Park Police Officer Involved in Shooting During Call for Assistance - United States Park Police
• USPP provide update to officer-involved shooting that occurred in the 300 block of 36th street NE. - United States Park Police
• Teenager fatally shot by U.S. Park Police officer in Northeast D.C. - Washington Post