Shocking Turn: DC DJ and Barber Dies from Attack Injuries After 2 Weeks!
WASHINGTON — The city is mourning the loss of Bryan Smith, a beloved DJ, barber, and stylist who was well-known in the LGBTQ nightlife community. The 39-year-old passed away on November 8, two weeks after being attacked in Washington, D.C.
Bryan’s partner, Tyler Nix, shared the devastating news with WUSA9. “It’s really sad. I miss him so much. To not have the person you talk to every day in your life—to not get that anymore is really hard,” Nix said.
The tragic attack occurred on October 26 in the 500 block of T Street NW, according to D.C. police. Nix explained that Smith had been at a club earlier that evening for an appearance.
After the event, the couple went to a friend’s house. At around 4 or 5 a.m., they went their separate ways. Nix says everything seemed fine at the time, as they were texting each other until they parted.
Not long after, Smith was robbed and brutally attacked. Police reported finding him unresponsive with blood on his nose.
He was immediately rushed to the hospital with severe head injuries. Nix said he had been in contact with Smith through text messages, and nothing seemed out of the ordinary.
“He was texting me the whole time and didn’t say anything otherworldly. I don’t think he was targeted, I think it was just wrong place, wrong time,” Nix shared.
Despite the best efforts of medical staff, Smith passed away on November 8, surrounded by his loved ones.
The same night, two other men were assaulted and robbed in a separate incident by a large group of around 40-50 people along Potomac Avenue and the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail in Southeast D.C.
Police said the suspects made off with cash, clothing, and credit cards, which were later used. It remains unclear whether the incidents are related.
The attack has left a mark on the community. Nix expressed how the incident shattered their sense of safety. “It’s frustrating… even now, I have friends that are afraid to walk to work,” he said.
Nix is urging anyone with information to come forward to help D.C. police find those responsible for Smith’s death. Despite the pain, he shared that he will always hold on to the memories of his partner, saying, “I have all our pictures and all the music we share. I’ll cherish those moments.”