Arlington County Police have identified 27-year-old Cedric Butler as the victim in a fatal officer-involved shooting on Tuesday afternoon. Butler, who had no fixed address, was shot near the Rosslyn Metro Station entrance after a confrontation with police officers. This incident has sparked an investigation by local and state authorities to understand the circumstances surrounding the event.
The events began at around 3:45 p.m. when Arlington County Police responded to a report of a suspicious person on the 1500 block of Wilson Boulevard. Butler had entered a business, interacted with employees, and allegedly pulled a knife before leaving. Concerned for their safety, the employees called the police.
Officers found Butler on the top floor of the Rosslyn Metro Station. When they approached him, Butler brandished a knife, leading to a physical struggle. During the altercation, one officer fired their gun, hitting Butler. Despite immediate lifesaving efforts, Butler was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Two officers were injured during the incident—one with non-life-threatening injuries and another who was evaluated at the hospital. Both officers have been placed on administrative leave pending the investigation's outcome. This step is standard to ensure a thorough review while maintaining accountability.
The ACPD’s Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) is leading the investigation, with the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office conducting an independent review to ensure all actions followed legal and procedural standards. The public is urged to provide any information that could aid the investigation, and those with details are encouraged to contact the ACPD Tip Line or the Arlington County Crime Solvers hotline.
The shooting has raised community concerns about police responses to individuals in crisis, highlighting challenges faced by law enforcement when dealing with those experiencing instability, homelessness, or mental health issues. The incident has prompted questions about the level of threat posed by Butler during the confrontation and broader police practices.
As the investigation progresses, CIRT will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review body-worn camera footage to create a detailed timeline of events. Findings will be shared with the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, which will determine if the use of force was justified. The administrative review will also assess if the officers adhered to departmental policies.
Community leaders and residents are closely watching the investigation. The Arlington County Police Department has called for patience and trust as they work to ensure transparency and accountability. They remain committed to fostering positive relationships with the public and encouraging open dialogue about police practices and interactions with vulnerable populations.
Authorities stress the importance of community cooperation in achieving justice and clarity. The death of Cedric Butler highlights the complexities law enforcement faces and the need for ongoing training and procedures to ensure safety for all. The Arlington County Police Department and the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office are committed to conducting a thorough and impartial review, with updates to be provided as new information emerges.
