Man indicted for fatal 2023 shooting in Washington County parking lot

In a significant development, Dwight Deshawn Dew Jr. was indicted by a grand jury for the fatal shooting of 24-year-old Pedro Antonio Prieto-Lopez in May 2023. The incident took place in a parking lot where Prieto-Lopez was shot, prompting an investigation by the Violent Crimes Unit. Evidence indicated that Dew Jr. used a fully automatic handgun, raising serious concerns about gun violence in the community.

Already incarcerated for a separate offense involving promoting prostitution, Dew Jr. has been returned to the Washington County Jail for arraignment on new charges. The indictment includes serious counts of manslaughter in the first degree and unlawful use of a weapon. Prieto-Lopez's family described him as a thoughtful and gentle giant, whose death has left a profound void in their lives. The Washington County Sheriff's Office is continuing its investigation and has urged anyone with relevant information to contact them.

This case highlights ongoing issues related to gun violence and public safety in the region.