Hit-and-Run Damages Home Near White House; Police Seek Jeep Driver
Locale: Tennessee, UNITED STATES

Jeep Sought After Home Damaged in Hit-and-Run Near the White House; Police Seek Public's Help
Washington D.C. – A home sustained significant damage early Thursday morning after being struck by a vehicle that fled the scene, prompting an investigation by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and a public appeal for information. The incident occurred in the 1600 block of Pennsylvania Avenue NW, just steps from the White House, leaving residents shaken and authorities searching for the driver of a distinctive Jeep believed to be involved.
According to WSMV’s report, police responded to calls around 3:25 AM on January 4th regarding a vehicle collision involving a residential structure. Upon arrival, officers found substantial damage to the front porch and exterior wall of a house. No injuries were reported among residents or bystanders; however, the structural integrity of the home is currently being assessed.
The MPD’s initial investigation suggests that the vehicle involved was a dark-colored Jeep, possibly a Grand Cherokee or similar model, with noticeable damage to its front end. Police are particularly interested in locating a Jeep exhibiting a broken headlight and a damaged grille. They have released images of the suspected vehicle taken from security camera footage (as seen in the WSMV report) hoping someone will recognize it. The images show a dark SUV, consistent with the description, speeding away from the scene.
The location of the incident is particularly sensitive given its proximity to the White House and the heightened security measures typically in place. While the investigation is ongoing, authorities have stated that there's no indication at this time that the crash was related to any national security concerns or targeted attack. However, the close proximity necessitates a thorough examination of all circumstances surrounding the event.
"We are actively working to identify the driver responsible for this reckless act," said MPD spokesperson Sergeant Elizabeth Smith in a statement released Thursday morning. "The damage caused not only impacts the homeowner but also disrupts the peace and safety of our community. We urge anyone with information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, to come forward."
The investigation is being led by MPD’s Traffic Safety Administration, which is analyzing security camera footage from nearby businesses and residences in an attempt to trace the vehicle's route before and after the collision. They are also canvassing the neighborhood, speaking with residents who may have witnessed the incident or observed suspicious activity during the early morning hours.
The homeowner, whose identity has not been publicly released, expressed shock and frustration over the incident. "I woke up to a loud crash," they told WSMV in an interview. "It was terrifying. I'm just grateful no one was hurt." The extent of the damage is significant enough that repairs are expected to be costly and time-consuming.
This isn’t the first instance of vehicle incidents impacting residential properties near high-profile locations in Washington D.C. While not directly related, similar events have highlighted concerns about speeding and reckless driving within the city, particularly during late-night hours. The MPD has been under pressure to address these issues and increase patrols in vulnerable areas.
The WSMV report also referenced a previous incident reported by Fox 5 DC (linked within the original article) involving a similar Jeep being sought in connection with another traffic violation in the area earlier this week. While authorities haven't definitively linked the two incidents, the similarity in vehicle description has intensified the search and raised questions about whether the same individual may be involved. Fox 5’s report details a separate incident where a dark-colored Jeep was reportedly speeding through Georgetown and ran a red light.
The MPD is offering a reward for information leading to the identification and arrest of the driver responsible. Anyone with information regarding this hit-and-run crash is urged to contact the Metropolitan Police Department at (202) 727-9200 or text tip line DC PD Tip Line: 50411. The case number for those wishing to provide information directly is 2300000068.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of reckless driving and the importance of responsible vehicle operation, especially in densely populated areas like Washington D.C. The MPD’s ongoing investigation aims not only to bring the perpetrator to justice but also to reinforce the message that such behavior will not be tolerated. The public's assistance is crucial in resolving this case and ensuring the safety and security of the community.
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Read the Full WSMV Article at:
[ https://www.wsmv.com/2026/01/04/officials-searching-jeep-after-home-left-damaged-hit-and-run-crash-white-house/ ]