Gunfire ripped through the streets of Washington, D.C., late Friday into early Saturday, leaving twelve people wounded in a brutal series of overnight shootings, as Newsmax reports.

Seven separate incidents between Friday night and early Saturday morning marked the most violent stretch in the nation’s capital since federal law enforcement officials surged into the city in August, aggravating a bitter dispute between local and national authorities.

The first shooting happened near Howard University around 8:30 p.m. on Friday, as the campus and surrounding area bustled on the eve of the school’s annual homecoming football weekend. The chaos left five victims, including a 13-year-old boy and a student from Morgan State University, injured. Police reported that one person from the incident remains in critical condition.

Authorities quickly detained two suspects near the scene of the Howard University shooting. The proximity to the university, during a popular community event, has sparked deep concern among residents and school officials alike. Howard's homecoming football game was scheduled for Saturday against Morgan State, drawing large crowds and celebratory gatherings to the area.

Just hours after the Howard University incident, additional gunfire echoed across the city. In six different shootings spread throughout the District, seven more individuals were wounded. According to D.C. police spokesperson Tom Lynch, although one remains in life-threatening condition, most victims are expected to recover.

Spike in shootings follows federal deployment

Friday night’s spree of violence comes during a period of heightened federal presence in Washington. In August, President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of roughly 2,500 National Guard troops to the city, citing concerns over what his administration characterized as escalating lawlessness in the District.

Although the District of Columbia is not part of any U.S. state, it has limited self-government under the Home Rule Act of 1973. This arrangement has triggered friction between city leaders and federal officials over who controls local policing. The president retains wide authority over the district, but local leaders argue that authority is being pushed too far.

Local officials, including D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb, have accused the federal government of unilaterally turning the National Guard into a “federally run police force” without proper legal oversight. Schwalb, a Democrat, filed a lawsuit in September disputing the legality of the troop presence, asserting that the Home Rule Act gives the city complete power over municipal law enforcement.

Legal battle intensifies as residents seek answers

Arguments in the federal-versus-local control lawsuit began on Friday, the same day the shootings erupted across Washington. The timing has amplified political tensions and community anxiety, particularly as crime statistics suggest that violent activity had been declining before the National Guard was brought in.

“One victim sustained life-threatening injuries and investigators think the others will survive their wounds,” Lynch said during a Saturday morning media briefing. That information, however, has done little to calm fears of residents shaken by the shootings.

Outside Howard University, bystanders described scenes of panic and confusion as gunfire interrupted the festive atmosphere of homecoming week. “All we heard was yelling,” one witness told DC News Now. “We can’t do nothing in D.C. … This happens every time there’s a function in D.C., especially homecoming. D.C. [is] dangerous.”

Gun violence mars celebrations

For families, students, and alumni attending Howard University’s homecoming events, the attack struck particularly hard. The wounded included young teens and college students, raising pressing concerns about the safety of public spaces during major events.

Officials have not detailed whether any of the additional shooting incidents across the city were connected or shared a common motive. Investigations remain ongoing, and police have urged anyone with information to step forward to aid in solving the cases.

The shootings took place in multiple neighborhoods across the city, affecting communities already wary of federal intervention and longtime neglect. The sudden spike in violence has spotlighted deeper issues of policing, resources, and trust between residents and law enforcement agencies.

Lessons to learn

While these tragic events are part of a larger social and political commentary, there are personal safety takeaways for community members:

1. Be vigilant at large public gatherings. Events like university homecomings, concerts, and festivals can sometimes attract individuals with violent intentions. Staying close to exits, remaining aware of surroundings, and keeping communication devices charged can help reduce risks.

2. Report suspicious activity quickly. Witnesses or community members who see conflicts developing, or people behaving erratically, should notify authorities to act quickly. Early intervention can prevent escalation.

3. Remember that crime can happen to anyone. While safety steps matter, no one is ever to blame for being the victim of violence. These incidents underscore how systemic issues affect everyone, and victim-blaming serves no purpose.

Why this story matters

This story captures the intersection of local community safety and federal governance, making it a national issue with personal consequences. It shows how unclear legal boundaries and political disputes can compromise residents’ peace of mind.

It also reflects how even times of celebration can be upended by violent acts, changing the perception of safety in everyday public spaces. Most importantly, it reminds readers that behind every statistic are real people.

In conclusion, twelve individuals were shot in seven incidents that occurred across Washington, D.C., overnight from Oct. 24 to 25. The violence coincided with a contentious legal battle over the president's control of law enforcement in the city, intensified by the presence of National Guard troops. As investigations continue and communities recover, questions remain about whether current strategies are effectively keeping Washingtonians safe.