Man Fatally Shot Inside Capitol Heights Apartment, No Suspects Identified

David Downs, 42, was found dead inside an apartment at the Hillside Heights Apartments in the 5200 block of Marlboro Pike in the Town of Capitol Heights after officers responded to a reported shooting at about 11:20 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 23, 2026. Prince George’s County officers discovered the man with gunshot wounds and he died at the scene, officials said.

Prince George’s County Police Department Homicide Unit detectives are leading the investigation into the fatal shooting, and detectives remain actively working the case at the complex. Authorities have not released details on a motive, weapon type, or whether the apartment was the victim’s residence or a visit location. Investigators have not provided suspect descriptions or said whether surveillance footage has been recovered.

As of Monday night there were no suspects in custody, and detectives continue canvassing and following leads. Investigators are asking anyone with information to contact Crime Solvers online or submit a tip through the P3 Tips app so detectives can pursue witnesses or physical evidence tied to the 11:20 a.m. response on Feb. 23.

Family members identified the victim as David Downs, and his father James Downs urged the community to remember his son and help bring those responsible to justice. James Downs said, “Today I am experiencing my saddest moment, I lost my son to someone who thought they could just take his life from him. And I hope they get what they deserve. And I hope they get locked up.” He added, “Anyone who has a son who is not connected to their son or who doesn’t have a good relationship with their son, you need to call them and tell them you love them or give them a hug. And if you ever lose them, you will feel sad like I do.”

Reporters and investigators noted inconsistent language in brief Prince George’s County Police social posts that referenced a different day and a truncated age; those posts cited a “Wednesday afternoon” incident and began an age with “19-,” which does not align with the Monday, Feb. 23 timeline and the family identification of a 42-year-old victim. Police have not clarified whether the social posts refer to this same case or to a separate incident.

Detectives said the case remains under active investigation by the PGPD Homicide Unit, and they reiterated the request that anyone with information contact Crime Solvers or submit a tip through the P3 Tips app to assist with identifying suspects and establishing the circumstances of the shooting.