NORTHEAST D.C. – Jason Lewis was convicted of manslaughter on Friday, following the shooting death of middle schooler Karon Blake in early 2023. The fatal encounter occurred on Quincy Street NE, with Lewis claiming he acted in self-defense.
The incident transpired when Lewis allegedly suspected the 13-year-old of breaking into cars in their neighborhood. Hearing noises outside around 4 a.m., Lewis armed himself and ventured outside. Upon seeing a gun seemingly pointed at him, he fired his weapon, fatally injuring Blake.
Prosecutors, however, suggested there was no evidence indicating Lewis was under threat at the time of the shooting.
Lewis was cleared of the second-degree murder charge but was found guilty of manslaughter, along with two counts of assault and three counts of possessing a firearm during a violent crime. No discernible emotion registered on Lewis’ face when the verdict was delivered.
The shooting was captured on video, as well as the aftermath. Disturbingly, Lewis did not immediately attempt to help the boy, opting to lean against a wall, breathe deeply, and then enter his house to call 911. Authorities released an audio recording of the call, during which Lewis confirmed that Blake was running towards him when he was shot and was no longer breathing.
Blake, who was fond of football and fashion, is remembered by his classmates as the nicest boy who always brought smiles to others. His tragic death has left a void in the life of his mother, Londen Blake, where he was considered the ‘man of the house.’
Lewis, who testified in his own defense, is slated for sentencing on October 25. He was released on his own recognizance with GPS monitoring.