People from across the DMV are mourning the loss of a community activist and artist who was shot and killed early Saturday morning.
The shooting happened outside of a popular restaurant in Prince George’s County. Police have not formally identified the victim but family members have.
The family of Cornelius McDonald said he was the man shot and killed Saturday morning.
Friends and family tell me Cornelius McDonald was deeply adored.
They’re still in shock after he died Saturday morning, but they want people to remember the impact he had on the community and region.
“When people think about Neal I hope that they know he was a true light in the room. He was so positive and he really did care about people,” longtime friend, Mariah Barnette said.
Mariah Barnette was fighting back tears when we asked her about her close friend Cornelius McDonald. The two had been friends for more than 15 years.
Known to many as just ‘Neal,’ McDonald is being remembered as a father and pillar in this community.
“He was very well known, loved across the DMV,” Executive Director of Peace for D.C. Marcus Ellis said.
Those who grew up and worked with him in Prince George’s County and D.C. described McDonald as a genuine person who was known for showing up for the people in a positive way.
“He’s like a brother to me, it feels a little numb to be talking about him in this way but he’s always been a brother, a protector, a really good friend to me,” Barnette said.
McDonald was shot and killed Saturday morning outside of Jasper’s, a well-known restaurant in Lake Arbor on Lottsford Court.
No suspect information has been released and investigators have not given much information regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting. With so few answers, the focus now is on McDonald’s legacy.
His family released a statement saying:
“It is with profound sorrow that we announce the untimely passing of Cornelius ‘Neal’ McDonald, a cherished leader, advocate, and pillar of our community. Neal’s unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others was evident in everything he did. His mission to shed light on mental health within inner-city communities and his passionate efforts to combat gun violence were nothing short of inspiring.
Neal was not just a voice of reason but a beacon of hope.
He spent his days touring local high schools, sharing his powerful message with students and encouraging them to confront their mental health challenges with courage and authenticity.
His ability to connect with young people and motivate them to strive for a better future was a gift that touched countless lives.
