The community is rallying around the family of 33-year-old Gaithersburg resident Nicholas Franklin Njuki following his fatal shooting early Sunday morning.
A fundraiser has been organized to help Njuki’s family with funeral expenses and to honor his life. His family described him as a cherished son, brother, family member, friend, coach and mentor whose life touched many people.
“We are asking for the support of our family, friends, and community as we come together to honor Nicholas and give him the farewell he deserves,” the family wrote. “Any contribution, no matter the amount, will help our family with the funeral arrangements and allow us to properly honor and lay Nicholas to rest.”
The family thanked those who have offered support, prayers and donations, adding, “Rest peacefully, Nicholas. You will be deeply loved, greatly missed, and never forgotten.”
Njuki was fatally shot following a confrontation with an unknown suspect early Sunday, September 13. At approximately 2:02 a.m., Rockville City Police and Montgomery County Department of Police 1st District officers responded to the parking lot of Quincy’s Potomac in the 1000 block of Seven Locks Road.
Officers found Njuki suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Officers and Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) personnel attempted lifesaving measures, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to police, Njuki and the suspect had been involved in a confrontation inside the restaurant. Njuki and another person later left in a vehicle and encountered the suspect, who was traveling in a separate vehicle, near Fortune Terrace and Northside Park Boulevard. Police said Njuki was outside the vehicle when the suspect shot him.
The suspect also allegedly fired at the person who was with Njuki. That person drove away and called 911, while the suspect fled in a separate vehicle. No suspect description has been released, and no arrest has been announced.
The Montgomery County Department of Police Major Crimes Division continues to investigate. Anyone with information may submit an anonymous tip through Crime Solvers of Montgomery County or call 1-866-411-8477. Information leading to an arrest may qualify for a reward ranging from $250 to $10,000.
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