Suspect and Officer Injured in Catonsville Gunfire Exchange
A Baltimore County police officer is in guarded condition after being shot in what authorities are calling a “premeditated” attack outside the Wilkens Precinct station near the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). The incident, which unfolded Thursday afternoon, also left the suspect critically injured.
Ambush in the Parking Lot
According to Baltimore County Police Chief Robert McCullough, the suspect initially entered the precinct building, spoke with desk officers, and then left. Shortly after, around 2:30 p.m., he engaged in conversation with an officer refueling his vehicle in the parking lot. As the officer prepared to leave for the day, the suspect walked away, then suddenly turned back, brandishing a handgun and opening fire.
Two officers nearby immediately returned fire, striking the suspect in the lower body. During the exchange, the officer in the parking lot was also shot. Both the injured officer and the suspect were rushed to local hospitals, with the officer undergoing emergency surgery at Maryland Shock Trauma Center.
Investigation and Security Concerns
While the suspect’s motive remains unclear, Chief McCullough emphasized that early evidence suggests a deliberate attack. He noted that the suspect has a limited criminal history, and authorities are investigating possible motivations behind the shooting.
McCullough also highlighted the need for enhanced security measures at police facilities. He pointed out that the new Wilkens Precinct building, which is already in development, will include additional security features.
Swift Medical Response
Dr. Thomas Scalea, chief physician at Shock Trauma, confirmed that the wounded officer suffered a gunshot wound to the torso and underwent immediate surgery. “He is in guarded condition under very close observation,” Scalea stated.
The officer, a six-year veteran of the department, was wearing a protective vest at the time of the shooting. His rapid transport—within four minutes of the attack—was credited to the quick response of Baltimore County Fire Department personnel.
Campus Alert and Public Response
Following the shooting, authorities advised residents and commuters to avoid the area, including sections of Interstates 695 and 95 near Catonsville and Arbutus, as the investigation unfolded. UMBC issued a campus alert shortly after 3 p.m., informing students and staff of police activity near campus. The university later updated its website to confirm that a suspect had been taken into custody.
Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier described the incident as a dark and difficult day for the community. “It’s been quite an experience,” she said outside the hospital.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine what led to the targeted attack.