A suspect accused in a deadly summer shooting that claimed the life of a congressional intern is now at the center of an intense manhunt in Washington, D.C.
According to Fox News, authorities are offering a combined $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of 18-year-old Naqwan Antonio Lucas, who is wanted for the premeditated murder of 21-year-old intern Eric Tarpinian-Jachym during a June shooting that also left two others injured near the heart of the nation’s capital.
The Metropolitan Police Department announced the reward this week and released a wanted poster for Lucas, a resident of Granby, Massachusetts. He is now the third suspect in the high-profile case following the arrests of two 17-year-olds, Kelvin Thomas and Jailen Lucas, both from Washington, D.C. Investigators have revealed that all three face charges of premeditated first-degree murder while armed in the homicide that occurred just blocks from the White House.
The shooting took place on June 30, 2025, and resulted in the death of Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a summer intern for Rep. Ron Estes, a Republican from Kansas. Tarpinian-Jachym was a senior at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and was described by colleagues as a bright and compassionate individual with an interest in public service. He was one of three victims that night, with an adult woman and a 16-year-old boy also injured in the incident.
Public Honors Victim Of Capitol Hill Shooting
In a show of respect, House lawmakers held a moment of silence in July to honor Tarpinian-Jachym’s memory. His death shocked the community, especially coming in such proximity to the Capitol. Law enforcement officials emphasized the brutality of the attack and the planning believed to be behind it, leading to the charge of premeditated murder.
Rep. Ron Estes offered condolences in the wake of the intern’s death, calling the 21-year-old “dedicated and thoughtful and kind,” and someone who, he said, deeply valued his country. The congressman’s office had worked closely with Tarpinian-Jachym, and his loss was felt deeply among staff and lawmakers alike. The two teen suspects arrested in the case—Kelvin Thomas and Jailen Lucas—were both charged as adults. Authorities have noted that both had prior violent offenses recorded in family court, though details of those records have not been fully disclosed. Their arrests took place on a Friday, several weeks after the fatal shooting.
Reward Increased As Police Seek Third Suspect
Authorities have now shifted considerable focus to finding the third suspect, Naqwan Lucas. Investigators obtained a Superior Court warrant for his arrest on charges identical to those filed against the other two suspects. However, information surrounding his background remains limited, and police have not confirmed whether he has a prior criminal record.
Though Naqwan and Jailen Lucas share the same last name, officials say there is currently no indication of a family relation. Their cities of residence—Granby, Massachusetts, and Northwest D.C., respectively—do not suggest proximity, adding to the uncertainty about their connection beyond the alleged crime. The reward in the case was expanded beyond MPD's typical cap of $25,000. The FBI's Washington Field Office contributed an additional $15,000, and the U.S. Marshals Service added $10,000 more, bringing the total to $50,000 in hopes of accelerating the search for Lucas.
Community Urged To Assist But Avoid Action
The MPD has issued public safety cautions, urging anyone who may know of Lucas' whereabouts not to approach him. Instead, they are asking individuals to call MPD at 202-727-9099 or send information anonymously by texting 50411.
Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized that if convicted, the suspects will face significant legal penalties, stating they "will face severe justice." Her office also released a prepared statement offering support to Tarpinian-Jachym’s family, expressing hope that progress in the case offers “some measure of solace.” Officials have not yet disclosed a motive for the June 30 shooting or what led Tarpinian-Jachym to be targeted, if at all. The investigation remains active, and police continue to gather evidence while appealing for witnesses or tipsters to assist in bringing the third suspect into custody.
Case Draws Federal Involvement And Public Scrutiny
The involvement of both the FBI and the U.S. Marshals in offering financial rewards underscores the seriousness of the case. With the crime occurring near such an important federal area, the incident has sparked concern over public safety just blocks from congressional operations.
Tarpinian-Jachym’s death has also raised questions about youth violence and criminal justice reform in the city, particularly with the decision to charge minors as adults, given their prior offenses. Lawmakers and local leaders have not commented directly on the policy issues, preferring to focus on justice for the victims. The MPD’s commitment to pursuing leads and holding those responsible accountable has been clear in their swift identification of suspects and coordination with federal partners. Still, the manhunt for Naqwan Lucas remains ongoing more than two months after the fatal shooting.
Investigation Continues As Community Mourns
As investigators press forward, the Capitol Hill community remains shaken. The memory of a young intern killed while serving the country has left a deep impression on both national lawmakers and residents alike. His legacy continues to be honored by those who worked alongside him and the family and friends he left behind.
Law enforcement officials urge the public to remain vigilant and assist in any way they can—through information, not action. As attention on the case grows, authorities hope it will bring closure to the loved ones mourning the loss. Until that third arrest is made, authorities say their efforts will remain focused on locating and safely apprehending the remaining suspect. With a $50,000 reward involved, they believe that assistance from the public could soon lead to a breakthrough.
