Richard Dyson, a 58-year-old resident of the District of Columbia, has been arrested on charges of second-degree murder while armed in connection with the death of Donnella Bryan. The arrest was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Dyson appeared before Superior Court Magistrate Judge Robert J. Hildum and entered a plea of not guilty. Judge Hildum determined there was probable cause for the charge and ordered Dyson to be held without bond until his preliminary hearing scheduled for June 18, 2025, before Judge Michael Ryan.
The incident dates back to April 19, 2025, when officers from the Fifth District responded to a report at approximately 8:00 a.m. about an unconscious person in the 1600 block of Maryland Avenue, Northeast. Upon arrival, officers found Donella Bryan inside a dumpster. DC Fire and EMS declared her deceased after finding no signs consistent with life.
The Metropolitan Police Department is conducting the investigation into this case. Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Cocuzza is leading the prosecution.
Authorities remind that charges are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
