On Saturday, June 21, visitors at the National Mall were alarmed when a driver in a black Jeep recklessly sped across the park grounds. Eyewitness videos captured the vehicle tearing through the manicured grass and dirt walkways, performing donuts and zig-zagging between startled pedestrians who had to quickly dodge the car. The scene unfolded amid a warm day filled with crowds attending events like the Smithsonian’s Solstice Saturday and the Giant National Capital BBQ Battle. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
The National Park Service confirmed that the driver fled the location but was later apprehended after police traced his license plate back to his Southeast D.C. apartment. The driver, identified as 30-year-old Curtis Lear, faces multiple charges, including destruction of federal property, assault with a dangerous weapon, disorderly conduct, fleeing law enforcement, and various counts of reckless driving. Witnesses described the chaotic scene as Lear drove at high speeds, endangering both people and property.
When apprehended, Lear initially downplayed the incident, telling authorities, “It’s just a joke.” However, during questioning, he claimed he wasn’t sure if he had driven in the area and didn’t know where the National Mall was. He appeared in D.C. Superior Court on June 23 and remains in custody without bond, with a subsequent hearing scheduled for June 26. The incident has raised concerns regarding public safety and the responsible use of vehicles in crowded areas.
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