D.C. fireman fatally shot after allegedly assaulting his girlfriend

BRYANS ROAD, Md. (TCD) -- A 30-year-old D.C. firefighter reportedly threatened a dog walker and was shot dead after allegedly assaulting his girlfriend.

According to a news release from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, on Monday, May 8, at approximately 3:30 a.m., officers responded to a report of a domestic assault on the 2900 block of Sedgemore Place. Before their arrival, officers reportedly learned of shots fired in the area.

At the scene, the Sheriff’s Office said officers found Carl Braxton near Sedgemore Place and Matthews Road suffering from gunshot wounds. He was transported to a hospital and pronounced dead.

Upon further investigation, the Sheriff’s Office learned Braxton allegedly assaulted his girlfriend inside their townhouse. The woman then reportedly fled the home and "encountered a man who was walking his dog."

According to the Sheriff’s Office, witnesses saw Braxton approach the man and threaten to harm him. Braxton allegedly "continued walking aggressively toward the man, at which time the man, who has a permit to carry a firearm, produced a gun and shot Braxton."

The Sheriff’s Office said the dog walker stayed on scene before officials transported the man to a police station and later released him. Authorities said, "There is no indication any of the involved subjects were known to the man."

In a statement on Twitter, the Washington, D.C., Fire and EMS Department said Braxton was an active-duty firefighter and EMT of eight years who was serving at Engine Company 22 in Shepherd Park at the time of the fatal shooting. He reportedly leaves behind two sons.

MORE:

• Press Release — Charles County Sheriff’s Office
• Statement — Washington DC Fire and EMS