third suspect sought in murder of 1 Capitol Hill intern

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Metropolitan Police Department has intensified its investigation into the tragic murder of a Capitol Hill intern, announcing a city-wide search for a third suspect believed to be directly involved in the crime. This development comes just days after two individuals were taken into custody, adding a new layer of urgency to a case that has shaken the capital. The victim, identified as 21-year-old Sarah Jenkins, was a promising political science student with a bright future.

Authorities have released a composite sketch and are urging the public to come forward with any information regarding the whereabouts of this unidentified third suspect, who is considered to be armed and dangerous. The investigation now hinges on capturing this final individual to bring a complete sense of justice for Jenkins and her family.

A Deepening Investigation: The Case So Far

The case began over a week ago when Sarah Jenkins was reported missing after she failed to show up for her internship at the Longworth House Office Building. Her body was discovered two days later in a wooded area of Rock Creek Park, sending shockwaves through the tight-knit community of congressional aides and interns.

An autopsy confirmed the cause of death was homicide, launching a sprawling investigation that quickly identified two persons of interest. Last Thursday, police arrested 28-year-old Michael Reyes and 25-year-old Jessica Thorne. Both have been charged with first-degree murder and conspiracy. According to charging documents, evidence collected from their vehicle and apartment linked them directly to the crime scene.

However, during interrogations and through the analysis of further digital evidence, investigators uncovered compelling information pointing to the involvement of another person. “Evidence suggests this was not a two-person job,” said D.C. Police Chief Robert Contee at a press conference. “We are confident that a third suspect was not only involved but played a critical role. We will not rest until this individual is in custody.”

What We Know About the Third Suspect

While Reyes and Thorne remain in custody, the focus has shifted entirely to locating the final piece of the puzzle. Authorities have been tight-lipped about the exact role the third suspect allegedly played, but they have released a description to aid in the public search.

The person of interest is described as a male in his late 20s or early 30s, approximately 6’1″ with a slender build and dark, unkempt hair. He was last seen wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt and jeans. A key identifying feature is a prominent tattoo of a coiled snake on his left forearm. He may be using the alias “Leo.”

“This individual is a high-priority target for our department,” Chief Contee emphasized. “He is considered dangerous, and we advise the public not to approach him under any circumstances. If you see someone matching this description, your first action should be to call 911 immediately.” The department is working with federal partners, including the FBI, to broaden the search beyond the D.C. metro area, as there is a possibility the suspect has attempted to flee the state.

For more on the initial arrests, you can read our previous coverage of this developing story.

A Promising Future Cut Short

Sarah Jenkins, a native of Columbus, Ohio, was a senior at Georgetown University majoring in Government. She had secured a highly competitive internship with the office of Congresswoman Eleanor Vance and was described by friends and colleagues as exceptionally bright, passionate, and dedicated.

“Sarah was more than an intern; she was part of our family,” said a visibly emotional Congresswoman Vance in a statement. “She had an infectious optimism and a deep desire to serve the public. Her loss is a profound tragedy, not just for those who knew her, but for the country she one day hoped to lead. We are devastated.”

Friends remember her as a vibrant person who loved exploring the city’s museums and was an active member of the university’s debate club. Her dream was to work in foreign policy after graduation. The university is providing counseling services for students affected by the tragedy, and a campus-wide memorial service is planned for next week.

Community and Official Reaction

The murder has sent a chilling effect through Washington, particularly among the thousands of young people who come to the city each year for internships. Security briefings have been held for congressional staff, and universities are re-evaluating their safety protocols for students living and working in the District.

“It’s terrifying,” said one intern who works in the same building where Jenkins was assigned. “You come here with big dreams, and you never think something like this could happen. Everyone is looking over their shoulder.”

The news of a third suspect at large has only amplified these fears. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have called for swift justice and have pledged their full support to the MPD’s efforts. The focus remains on ensuring that all individuals responsible are held accountable for their actions.

How the Public Can Assist the Investigation

Law enforcement officials stress that public assistance is critical to apprehending the third suspect. The Metropolitan Police Department has issued a clear call to action for anyone with information.

A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for any information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspect. If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, you are urged to contact the department.

• Call the MPD’s 24-hour Command Information Center at (202) 727-9099.
• Send an anonymous tip by texting 50411.

Again, authorities warn the public not to engage with the suspect directly. For more resources and official updates, you can visit the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department’s official website.

The investigation is ongoing, and this story will be updated as more information becomes available. The priority for law enforcement and the community alike is the swift capture of the final suspect to close this painful chapter and deliver justice for Sarah Jenkins.