Authorities in Prince George’s County are investigating a deadly incident that occurred late Monday night at a well-known barbecue drive-thru and nightlife venue in Fairmount Heights. The individual who lost his life has been identified as 50-year-old Donald Wayne Hunt of Waldorf, Maryland. He was discovered with a gunshot wound shortly before midnight and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
According to police, officers responded to the Ebony Inn on the 5300 block of Sheriff Road around 11:50 p.m. after receiving multiple emergency calls reporting a disturbance inside the establishment. Early 911 transmissions suggested a chaotic environment, with callers describing a fight in progress. One person reported that several individuals had taken cover inside a freezer for safety while another claimed the victim was lying in a hallway.
Investigators believe Hunt became involved in an altercation with several other individuals inside the business. A security guard on duty reportedly became aware of the ongoing fight. During the confrontation, the guard discharged a firearm, striking Hunt. Police added that they also recovered a second firearm at the scene that did not belong to the guard. Detectives are working to determine who that weapon belonged to and how it may relate to the sequence of events.
The Ebony Inn remained closed throughout Tuesday while officers continued to gather evidence and examine the premises. The business owner stated that the temporary closure was intended to allow law enforcement full access during the investigation.
Hunt’s family members shared that they are struggling to come to terms with his sudden loss. Customers arriving on Tuesday expressed a range of reactions, from shock to concerns about the establishment’s history. Earlier this year, the location was mentioned in a separate high-profile case involving a former D.C. police officer, though that matter is unrelated to Monday night’s events.
As of now, police say the investigation remains active. Detectives are reviewing evidence, conducting interviews and working to clarify exactly what led to the shooting. No charges have been filed at this stage, and the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office confirmed that it continues to monitor the case as new information becomes available.
