A mass shooting incident on the evening of December 18, 2024, has left one person dead and nine others injured near Johnson-Fosbrink Funeral Home on Loch Raven Boulevard, just north of Baltimore. Police responded to the scene around 7:15 p.m. following multiple reports of gunfire.
Baltimore County Police Chief Robert McCullough confirmed during a press briefing, "This is considered a mass shooting." The incident was described as particularly shocking for the local community, where such violence is uncommon. One deceased victim was discovered alongside several injured individuals who were transported to local hospitals for treatment.
Police arrived to find a vehicle overturned and engulfed in flames. "When officers arrived, they found a vehicle on its side and in flames," McCullough stated. No specifics were provided about the deceased individual or the condition of the wounded, as authorities carefully pieced together the circumstances leading up to the incident.
McCullough emphasized the targeted nature of the attack: "It appears the individuals involved knew each other, and there is no on-going threat to the public." Witnesses reported hearing numerous gunshots before the chaos erupted, which left the area teeming with police and emergency responders.
Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski also expressed his concerns, highlighting the rarity of such violence within the community. "This type of violence is rare in Baltimore County," he mentioned, adding, "This incident is shocking, particularly for those of us in Baltimore County." He assured residents of law enforcement's commitment to addressing the incident and supporting affected families.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has joined local authorities, contributing resources to the investigation. Investigators are attempting to identify the suspects involved and understand the reasons behind the violent outburst. Evidence of gunfire was located on the funeral home's façade, along with shell casings scattered throughout the area.
Following the incident, the police urged community members to provide any information related to the shooting. "We will leave no stone unturned and we will dedicate every resource to this," McCullough pledged.
The incident adds to the grim statistics on mass shootings across the United States. Federal data highlights the country has recorded over 490 mass shooting incidents this year. The Gun Violence Archive defines mass shootings as incidents where at least four individuals are shot, either injured or killed.
Local neighbors expressed their shock at the violence. Reports indicated they heard dozens of shots ring out shortly before the police arrived on the scene. One eyewitness described the chaotic atmosphere, saying, "It was crazy to come down here. Smoke was all up in the air and two cars were flipped."
Currently, police are gathering evidence and pursuing leads to resolve the case, with officials committed to ensuring justice for victims and their families. Baltimore County remains united as it confronts the aftermath of this shocking event, where the community must grapple with the trauma and loss experienced on what began as just another evening.
Anyone with information related to the shooting is encouraged to contact the Baltimore County Police Department at 410-887-4636. The investigation remains active, and updates on the situation will be provided as more information surfaces.
