Thomas Smith Jr. and Michael Bassett die in fatal Temple Hills shooting

Thomas Smith Jr. and Michael Bassett die in fatal Temple Hills shooting

Fatal Temple Hills shooting death of Thomas Smith Jr. and Michael Bassett – Obituary

Two 16-year-old boys, Thomas Smith Jr. from Washington, D.C., and Michael Bassett from Temple Hills, lost their lives in a tragic double shooting that occurred late Tuesday night in Temple Hills, Maryland. The victims were found inside a vehicle reported to have been stolen in a carjacking incident the day prior in nearby Oxon Hill.

Authorities discovered several firearms at the crime scene located along the 5500 block of Haras Place. Investigators believe the deadly shooting may have resulted from a drug deal that went wrong. Another teenager present at the scene was shot at but managed to escape without injury.

Following the incident, police chased an SUV into Washington, D.C., where they apprehended 27-year-old Duan Goddard of Fort Washington, Maryland. Goddard has since been charged with first- and second-degree murder in connection to the shooting.

Prince George’s County Acting Executive Tara Jackson described the killings as a heartbreaking way to start the summer season and stressed the importance of curfews and parental involvement to help protect local youth.

The shooting coincides with the launch of Prince George’s County Police’s annual Summer Crime Initiative, set to run from June 12 to August 3. Officials highlighted a notable 27% reduction in violent crime and a 36% drop in homicides in 2025 so far, attributing this progress to data-driven policing and stronger community partnerships.

The initiative includes stepped-up traffic enforcement, the creation of a new bicycle patrol unit, and youth engagement programs emphasizing sports and recreation.