Man Sets Fire Following Fatal Shooting In PG County

CHILLUM, MD — Prince George's County Police have obtained an arrest warrant for John Harris, 42, of Chillum, in connection with the fatal shooting of a D.C. woman, according to a police report. Police say Harris set a fire in an apartment to cover up the crime before fleeing the scene.

On Friday, April 10, around 10:10 p.m., Prince George's County Fire and Rescue personnel responded to the report of an apartment fire in the 7000 block of Highview Terrace. Arriving on the scene, firefighters found smoke coming from the windows of a second-floor apartment. As they worked to extinguish the fire, they discovered the body of a woman with severe burns. The victim, identified as Zena Nichols, 23, of Washington, D.C., was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy revealed that Nichols had suffered multiple gunshot wounds and the death was ruled a homicide.

PGPD obtained an arrest warrant for Harris, who they say set a fire in his home before fleeing the scene. Harris and Nichols were in a relationship, according to police.

Harris is charged with first and second degree murder, arson, assault and related charges. A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for information that leads to the arrest and indictment of Harris. Police say the motive for the domestic-related homicide remains under investigation.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call PGPD at301-772-4925. Those wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477), or go online at www.pgcrimesolvers.com, or use the “P3 Tips” mobile app. Police ask that callers refer to case 20-0018641.

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Body Of Woman Found In Fire; Homicide Detectives Investigate