WASHINGTON, D.C. – Newly released video footage has shed light on a fatal incident that occurred during a police training session at Anacostia Library last year. The footage captures the moment a retired D.C. Lieutenant shot and killed 25-year-old Maurica Manyan, a young mother and new homeowner. The incident has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the accountability of those involved.
In the video, recorded on August 4, 2022, Manyan and a group of Special Police Officer trainees had just completed baton training at the library. The training was conducted by private contractor Jesse Porter, a 59-year-old individual. After the training session, the group gathered to take a group photo. Manyan, positioned in the center of the group, turned to remove her mask when the shocking incident unfolded.
Porter can be seen in the video abruptly moving towards the group, drawing his firearm, and firing a single shot at Manyan, striking her in the chest. The immediate reaction of everyone present, including Porter, was one of shock and disbelief. Porter’s defense attorney claimed that the retired police lieutenant had mistakenly believed he was using a training firearm, denying any criminal intent.
However, Manyan’s family attorney, Brian McDaniel, placed partial blame on the city, asserting that it was time to enforce policies that prioritize safety.
Latoya Francis-Williams, the attorney representing Manyan’s family, expressed her determination to bring about change and advocate for stricter regulations. The release of the video, though difficult to watch, was done to support their calls for change. Francis-Williams argued that Porter should never have been allowed to carry a firearm within the D.C. public library premises, let alone during a training session.
In August 2022, Porter faced charges of involuntary manslaughter. In May of the following year, he was indicted on counts of second-degree murder while being armed, possessing a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful discharge of a firearm. If found guilty on these charges, he could face up to 24 years in prison.