An off-duty U.S. Park Police officer from the National Park Service tragically shot and killed another off-duty officer in an unintentional shooting incident that occurred over the weekend in McLean, Virginia. The officer responsible, Alexander Roy, 25, has been arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter. The victim of the shooting is identified as 22-year-old Jesse Brown Hernandez.

According to the Fairfax County Police Department, alcohol is believed to have been a contributing factor in the incident. The two officers, Roy and Hernandez, were joined by another off-duty Park Police officer and a fourth individual at an apartment in McLean when the incident took place. Fairfax County officers promptly responded to the scene at approximately 12:20 a.m. on Sunday.

Initial findings from detectives indicate that Roy was attempting to simulate discharging his weapon, under the false assumption that it was unloaded. Tragically, when Roy pulled the trigger, the gun fired, fatally striking Hernandez. Hernandez was found deceased with a gunshot wound to his upper body.

Following the incident, Roy was charged with involuntary manslaughter, which is a felony offense. He is currently being held without bond at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the shooting and are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.

In response to the incident, the U.S. Park Police released a statement acknowledging the tragic event. The agency expressed their focus on supporting the family, friends, and coworkers affected by the incident. The U.S. Park Police, responsible for serving the National Park Service and neighboring communities, often provide security for high-profile events and dignitaries, including the president and the secretary of the interior.

The investigation remains ongoing, and the Fairfax County Police Department is leading the inquiry. They are appealing to the public to provide any valuable information that may assist in the investigation.