Police probe gang link in Hyattsville fatal shooting, robbery

Police investigators said yesterday a fatal shooting in Hyattsville appears to have started as a robbery, but they are investigating whether the incident was gang-related.

The attack occurred Wednesday at about 8:30 p.m. when four Hispanic males walking in the 3300 block of Manorwood Drive were approached by three black males in a dark-colored sedan, according to the Hyattsville and Prince George’s County police departments.

The victims “looked like they probably were going together to some function,” said Cpl. Clinton Copeland, spokesman for Prince George’s police. He also said at least six to eight shots were fired from at least one handgun.

Two of the four Hispanic males were killed in the attack and all of them were shot in the upper body, said Theresa Allen, a county police spokeswoman.

Investigators have little information about the suspects, except that they were wearing dark clothing, Cpl. Copeland said.

The victims’ names had not been released as of last night.

One of the victims died in the street. The other died in a hospital. One survivor is in critical condition and the other is in stable condition, Cpl. Copeland said.

Anyone with information is asked to call Prince George’s Homicide Unit at 301-772-4925. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS.

Prince George’s County Police Department is offering up to $25,000 for a tip leading to the arrest and indictment of a suspect.

Police said the two murders brought the total so far this year in Prince George’s County to 27, compared to 39 at this time a year ago.