Suspect Sought in a Quebec Street Building Defacing That Police Are Investigating as a Possible Hate or Bias Offense
Police say a suspect wrote derogatory remarks on a building in the 2800 block of Quebec Street NW on October 14 and fled on foot; the department is investigating the defacing as potentially hate- or bias-motivated.
The Metropolitan Police Department is seeking the community's assistance in identifying a suspect in a defacing of private property in Northwest Washington. The offense occurred on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at approximately 2:50 p.m., police said.
According to the department's account, the suspect wrote derogatory remarks on a building in the 2800 block of Quebec Street, Northwest, and then fled the area on foot. Police released photos of the suspect on Monday and asked anyone who can identify him to come forward.
MPD is investigating the offense as potentially being motivated in whole or in part by hate or bias, as outlined in DC Official Code section 22-3701. The department notes that the designation can be changed at any point as the investigation proceeds and more information is gathered, and that an MPD hate-or-bias designation does not by itself mean prosecutors will prosecute the case as a hate crime. The department's Special Liaison Branch is assisting with the investigation.
Anyone who can identify the suspect or who has knowledge of the incident should take no action, police said, but call (202) 727-9099 or text a tip to the TEXT TIP LINE at 50411. MPD offers a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and indictment of those responsible. The case is recorded under CCN 26147172.
