Mon Sep 23 15:14:44 UTC 2024: ## Teenager Killed in Southeast D.C. Crash Involving Stolen Cars

**Washington, D.C.** – A 16-year-old boy, Kavonte Whatley, died after a collision involving two stolen Hyundai Elantras in Southeast D.C. earlier this month.

The crash occurred around 12:15 a.m. on September 14th in the 4300 block of Southern Avenue SE, near the D.C.-Maryland border. According to police, both drivers were speeding north and crossed into oncoming traffic, causing a head-on collision. One driver stopped, while the other driver crashed into a tree.

All occupants of both vehicles fled the scene, except for Whatley. He was found at the scene and transported to a hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries. Sadly, he succumbed to those injuries six days later.

The Metropolitan Police Department is investigating the incident. Authorities have yet to release information on the suspected thieves, the cars’ origins, or the drivers’ identities.

Despite the tragic incident, overall motor vehicle theft in Washington, D.C. has declined this year. Statistics from the Metropolitan Police Department show a 32% decrease in car thefts compared to the same period in 2022. Carjackings have also experienced a significant drop, down 49%. However, a concerning trend has emerged with 58% of individuals arrested for carjacking this year being juveniles.

Anyone with information about the crash is urged to contact the Metropolitan Police Department.

Read More