A 20-year-old Washington, D.C. man is facing a second-degree murder charge after a high-speed collision in Northwest D.C. claimed the life of a pedestrian last week.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced the charges against Santana Matthews following the fatal incident on January 7, 2026, which left 26-year-old Marckell Williams dead.
According to prosecutors, the crash occurred just before 4:00 p.m. in the 1100 block of 16th Street, Northwest. Investigators say Matthews was behind the wheel of a Chevrolet Malibu, speeding southbound, when he blew through a red light at the intersection with L Street.
The Malibu slammed into a Toyota Corolla that was traveling eastbound on a green light. The force of the impact sent the Malibu careening into the crosswalk, striking Williams, who had the right-of-way. The chaotic chain reaction also damaged three other vehicles that were stopped at the red light in the northbound lanes of 16th Street.
Immediately following the crash, authorities say Matthews, who was the sole occupant of the speeding vehicle, attempted to run from the scene on foot. He was quickly apprehended by responding officers.
DC Fire and EMS arrived to treat the victims, but despite lifesaving efforts, Williams was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other victims, along with Matthews, were transported to local hospitals for non-life-threatening injuries.
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Matthews made his initial court appearance on January 8 before Superior Court Magistrate Judge Dorsey G. Jones. Judge Jones found probable cause for the charge of second-degree murder while armed and ordered Matthews held without bond.
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