Commuter beaten to death with metal pipe in random metro station attack

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, Md. (TCN) -- A suspect is in custody in connection with a random attack at a metro station that left a 61-year-old commuter dead and another injured.

On April 16, Stanley Hutchinson III was at a metro station on his way to work at about 5 a.m., NBC Washington reports. According to charging documents obtained by the outlet, he reportedly had a verbal interaction with the suspect, 30-year-old Nocholas Duncan, who had taken a metal pipe from a pile outside the station. When Hutchinson walked away, Duncan allegedly approached him from behind and hit him in the head with the pipe. When Hutchinson fell to the ground, Duncan allegedly stomped on him and poured an unknown liquid on his face.

According to WTTG, Duncan allegedly attacked another person, 45-year-old Christoper Campbell, as well.

Hutchinson was taken to an area hospital for treatment but was pronounced dead, according to WTOP.

Police apprehended Duncan at a bus stop, per NBC Washington. He reportedly had blood on his clothes and shoes. Duncan was charged with first- and second-degree murder.

Prince George’s County States Attorney Tara Jackson said Hutchinson was known as a gentle giant who would do anything for his friends and family, WUSA reports.

According to NBC Washington, Duncan is homeless and has a criminal record dating back to 2012. WJLA reports he has been arrested for thefts, burglaries, vandalism, disorderly conduct, and weapons violations, but it is unclear if he was convicted. 

At his first court appearance on April 20, he was denied bond. Per WTTG, additional charges are pending given that the investigation is ongoing.

WUSA reports Duncan will appear in court again May 18 for his preliminary hearing.

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