A tragic incident unfolded on Thursday evening as a Maryland judge, identified as Andrew Wilkinson, aged 52, lost his life in a shooting at his residence in Hagerstown. The local reports, along with information from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, indicate that Judge Wilkinson was discovered in his home’s driveway at approximately 8 p.m. He had sustained gunshot injuries and was subsequently transported to Meritus Medical Center, where he was later declared deceased. The authorities have not disclosed any information regarding arrests or provided a description of potential suspects at this time. The motive behind this disturbing act remains unknown.
Neil Parrott, a former state representative, verified the judge’s passing on X.
“Horrible news in Washington County tonight. It appears that Judge Andrew Wilkinson was shot multiple times and has passed away. Police are actively searching for the murderer. Please pray for our police and for Judge Wilkinson’s family at this time.”
As per the official Maryland government website, Judge Andrew Wilkinson has held the position of a judge in the 4th Judicial Circuit since January 2020. During his swearing-in ceremony, Wilkinson expressed his commitment to serving the community as his motivation for becoming a judge.
Born in Agana, Guam, in 1971, he pursued his higher education at the University of North Carolina before earning his law degree from Emory University. Between 2006 and 2012, he served as an assistant Washington County attorney and was also a part of the Character Committee of the State Board of Law Examiners from 2006 to 2019. The source further notes that Wilkinson actively engaged in youth soccer and baseball.
Hagerstown, located approximately 75 miles northwest of Baltimore, is situated in close proximity to the state boundaries of West Virginia and Pennsylvania.