Unhoused group attacked outside of Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. ( DC News Now ) — Police in Montgomery County are investigating a violent attack against a group of unhoused individuals in Silver Spring.

According to the Montgomery County Department of Police (MCPD), four people were sleeping at the intersection of Ellsworth Drive and Fenton Street outside of Veterans Plaza on July 16 when they were attacked by five men and one woman at 4:43 a.m.

“[It’s] very shocking. It’s disgusting and it’s really sad to see,” said Jessica, a resident of  Downtown Silver Spring who moved to the area roughly a year ago.

Jessica, along with other residents in the area, called the violent behavior alarming.

“It’s extremely disturbing. It’s hard to watch it and it’s disgusting,” said Marissa, who works in the downtown area.

In a statement, MCPD said one of the victims was asleep at a table when she was hit in the face. She attempted to grab her phone to call authorities, but the perpetrators grabbed her phone and broke it before she could make that call.

The group chased a fourth victim toward Georgia Avenue but eventually stopped, police stated.

“Having more safe, communal monitored spaces with resources for homeless individuals to utilize is going to be what helps decrease issues like this,” said Marissa, who calls for the county to open more homeless shelters for unhoused individuals.

She said the graphic incident is a reminder of why more affordable housing is needed in the county and why she’s “on edge” when walking in the area at night.

“As a woman especially, we don’t walk alone at night typically without bringing either one our male friends or walking in a large group,” said Marissa.

The perpetrators were last seen driving a dark-colored Honda Civic.

Locals remain sympathetic towards the unhoused community and are calling for a systematic change that creates opportunities for unhoused individuals to find permanent, safe housing.

“They are really normal people trying to live a normal life as they can. So the fact that people are trying to attack them is just insane to me,” said Jessica.

Authorities are seeking more information as the investigation continues to unfold. If anyone has more information regarding the incident, they are encouraged to call the police tip line at 1-866-411-8477.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.