Washington MGM Shooting: Benjamin Williams Charged in Death of Darnell Hawkins Jr.
PGPD Charges 22-year-old Benjamin Williams in connection with a fatal shooting at MGM National Harbor, according to the Prince George’s County Police Department.
Police said the shooting happened in Fort Washington, Maryland, on December 3, 2025, at about 11:55 a.m., when officers responded to reports of gunfire at the MGM National Harbor. Investigators stated that 23-year-old Darnell Hawkins Jr., of Washington, D.C., was found with multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.
PGPD said its Homicide Unit identified Benjamin Williams, 22, of Fort Washington, as the suspected shooter using investigative methods. Detectives obtained an arrest warrant, and police said the department’s Fugitive Unit took Williams into custody Thursday morning without incident.
Authorities said Williams is charged with first- and second-degree murder, along with additional related offenses. Police reported he is being held at the Prince George’s County Department of Corrections on a no-bond status.
Detectives believe Williams and Hawkins knew each other before the shooting, but police said a motive has not been confirmed and remains under investigation. Officials have not released further details about what led up to the incident.
PGPD is asking anyone with information to contact the Homicide Unit at 301-516-2512. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Solvers Online, the P3 Tips mobile app, or by calling 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). Tipsters are asked to reference case number 25-0067214.
