WASHINGTON (WUSA) – Police in Washington, D.C., have announced an arrest in the fatal shooting of a 3-year-old girl over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
Charles Rucker, 24, appeared in court Saturday on a charge of first-degree murder while armed in relation to the death of 3-year-old Honesty Cheadle. The judge ordered him held without bond while he awaits trial.
As Honesty’s family returned from a July 4 cookout in the early hours last Saturday, Rucker allegedly opened fire on their car. Investigators say the suspect fired at least six shots before fleeing into a nearby apartment building.
Honesty was rushed to the hospital, where she died Monday of her injuries. The next day, the medical examiner ruled her death a homicide caused by a single gunshot wound to the head.
“She was just one of a kind. She was my best friend,” said Honesty’s mother, Shaunita Ellerbe. “She’s the most beautifulest person. Everybody loved her. Everybody would take to her like family.”
According to an affidavit, Rucker returned to the scene of the shooting after just a few minutes and attempted to pick up spent cartridge cases. One .40-caliber round was found on the scene.
Police have not provided a motive for the shooting.
Honesty’s family says they were familiar with Rucker from the neighborhood, and they don’t know why he would have done this either. Now, they are hoping for justice as they try to wrap their minds around the loss of a little girl who had her whole life ahead of her.
“To Honesty’s loved ones, we know today’s news does not make you whole again. Nothing we can do will be able to fill the void left by Honesty’s passing, but we do hope the arrest brings some measure of comfort to your family as you grieve,” DC Police Chief Pamela Smith said.
Rucker was scheduled to return to court Aug. 13 for a preliminary hearing.
Copyright 2025 WUSA via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.
