The case against a man suspected of killing his West End neighbor in December will go to a grand jury next month.
David Jasante Cunningham has been held without bond in the Alexandria jail since his January 11 arrest on a second-degree murder charge of 23-year-old Melia Jones. Police found Jones dead in her in her apartment in the unit block of South Van Dorn Street on Tuesday, Dec. 7, at around 2:40 p.m.
Her death was the second homicide of 2021.
On March 18, Alexandria General District Court Judge Sonya L. Sacks found probable cause to send the case 40-year-old David Cunningham to the Grand Jury for indictment on April 11.
Police found Jones wrapped in blankets, and that she was sexually assaulted and died by asphyxiation, according to the Washington Post. Cunningham reportedly moved to the City from New York in 2020, and had a job at Coca-Cola Enterprises on Seminary Road.
More information on the charges and penalties Cunningham faces will be released after the April Grand Jury proceeding.
Recent Stories

Unwrap the magic of Black Friday and Small Business Saturday all weekend at Current Boutique! Dive into luxury with exclusive deals on pre-loved designer treasures, celebrating sustainable fashion with every purchase. Whether in-store or online, indulge in guilt-free glamour and support local businesses. ✨🛍️👗
💥 Sale: 25% off everything & 50% off tall boots
📅 Date: Friday November 24 – Sunday November 26
Christmas Through The Ages
Christmas Through The Ages – Join the Washington Men’s Camerata, and Guest Director Scott Tucker for a program of Christmas and holiday music spanning the centuries through today, featuring the music of Bach, Lauridsen, Abbie Betinis, and many others.