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WASHINGTON — A decorated Marine says he was surrounded, harassed, beaten and robbed in a downtown McDonald’s in a racially-motivated attack.

Christopher Marquez told police he was sitting by himself, eating a meal in the restaurant at 9th and E Streets NW Friday night, when a group of at least four teenagers and young adults gathered around his table.

He says the group loudly asked if he believes “black lives matter” and called him racist when he ignored the comments.
In the police report, Marquez says he was struck in the head with something hard, and robbed of his wallet, which contained $400 in cash and his bank cards.
Metropolitan Police Assistant Chief Peter Newsham confirmed police are “actively investigating” the incident, but declined to discuss a possible motive.

Police say surveillance video from the restaurant is being reviewed, but it’s unclear whether its quality can help police.

“When you have video you have to look at the value and what kind of chance somebody may be able to identify a suspect from that,” Newsham told reporters.

Marquez was awarded the Bronze Star for his actions in Fallujah, Iraq, in 2004, in which he risked his life to drag his wounded team leader away from enemy fire.

source:  WTOP.com