Surafel Zerihun Death & Obituary: On Tuesday evening, February 20, 2025, Surafel Zerihun, a 29-year-old resident of Northwest Washington, tragically lost his life during a police confrontation. The incident took place in the parking lot of a laundromat located in the 3500 block of Georgia Avenue NW, near the Petworth Metro station. According to authorities, Zerihun allegedly threatened a police officer with a knife and attempted to carjack a woman. The D.C. police officer involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave while investigations are underway.
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Background of Surafel Zerihun
Surafel Zerihun immigrated to the United States from Ethiopia at the age of 14. He pursued a degree in computer science at the University of the District of Columbia and worked part-time for both his father, Abebaw Bogale, and a ride-share company. Zerihun lived independently in D.C. and was described as a quiet, law-abiding individual with no criminal history. His father, Abebaw Bogale, a 52-year-old independent contractor in information technology, expressed disbelief at the events that led to his son’s death. Bogale emphasized that Zerihun did not drink, use drugs, or engage in criminal activity, and was a regular churchgoer.
The Incident: What Happened on Georgia Avenue NW?
At approximately 6:10 p.m., Zerihun was reportedly driving south on Georgia Avenue NW against oncoming traffic when he collided with a D.C. police vehicle. Following the crash, authorities stated that Zerihun exited his vehicle, brandished a knife, and allegedly reached into the police vehicle’s side window, demanding the officer’s firearm. This led to the officer firing his weapon, resulting in Zerihun’s death.
Family’s Response and Doubts
Abebaw Bogale, Zerihun’s father, voiced skepticism regarding the police’s version of events, stating that he had no further information beyond what had been reported in the media. He expressed that he could not understand what led to the tragic turn of events, especially given that Zerihun had no history of violence or criminal behavior. Authorities have confirmed that Zerihun had no prior arrests, and court records show no criminal history associated with his name.
Investigation and Next Steps
The officer involved in the shooting has been placed on standard administrative leave pending an investigation, which will be reviewed by the U.S. attorney’s office. A spokesperson for the D.C. police confirmed that body camera footage from the officer’s recording may be released next week, provided that the family consents. Investigators are working to determine the motives behind this perplexing and tragic incident.
Conclusion: Remembering Surafel Zerihun
Surafel Zerihun’s sudden and untimely death has left his family and friends in mourning. A young man with a promising future, Zerihun’s life was marked by hard work, dedication, and a peaceful demeanor. His father’s statements paint a picture of a young man who was focused on his education and career, with no history of criminal behavior. The tragic circumstances surrounding his death remain under investigation, and both family and community members seek answers. As the investigation unfolds, Surafel Zerihun will be remembered as someone who worked hard to build a better life in the United States, and whose death has left a lasting impact on those who knew him.