Police Investigate ‘Targeted Attack’ That Killed Maryland Judge

An investigation is underway this week following a shooting that left a Maryland judge dead outside of his home.

According to authorities, the incident occurred in Hagerstown at about 8 p.m. on Thursday. Upon arriving on the scene, paramedics discovered the victim, later identified as Associate Washington County Circuit Court Judge Andrew Wilkinson, on the ground.

He was transported from the scene to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead. 

The victim’s wife and son were reportedly also at the home at the time of the shooting, which police confirmed on Friday that they were treating as a “targeted attack” on the judge.

A suspect identified as 49-year-old Pedro Argote was reportedly going through a divorce for which Wilkinson was the presiding judge. As of Friday afternoon, Sheriff Brian K. Albert said that Argote had not been apprehended and should be “considered armed and dangerous.”

Wilkinson had been a judge for nearly four years and was serving a 15-year term. Between 2006 and 2012, he served as the assistant Washington County attorney. 

Former Republican state Delegate Neil Parrott was among the officials who responded to the news via public statements and social media posts.

“Horrible news in Washington County tonight,” he wrote. “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.”

U.S. Rep. David Trone (D-MD) also addressed the “horrifying” act of violence in a social media post on Friday.

In a statement confirming the news, the Maryland Judiciary affirmed that it “mourns the tragic death” and “is actively engaging with law enforcement to assist in resolving this matter and to ensure the safety of our judges, staff, and visitors, which remains our top priority.”

Even before evidence emerged that he was targeted due to his position as a judge, state police were sent to the homes of other judges to provide additional security.

Former neighbor Penny Hill remembered Wilkinson as “a terrific guy,” describing his death as “devastating for the community” and “terrifying.”