In a shocking incident, a judge in Maryland was fatally shot outside his home in what officials are calling a “targeted attack.” The shooting took place just hours after the judge granted custody of the suspect’s children to his estranged wife.
Judge Andrew Wilkinson, 52, was found with gunshot wounds in the driveway of his home in Hagerstown. He was rushed to the hospital but later succumbed to his injuries. The suspect, Pedro Argote, 49, is considered armed and dangerous and is currently on the run.
Wilkinson had been overseeing Argote’s divorce case, which was filed in June of this year. The judge had granted custody of the couple’s four children to the mother, and also issued a restraining order against Argote. The court records state that Argote cannot have contact with his children or his wife, unless initiated by her, and he is not allowed to enter the family home.
According to court documents, Argote’s wife had filed a domestic violence petition against him earlier this year, citing physical abuse and emotional control. However, the petition was dismissed for unknown reasons.
Authorities are asking anyone with information about Argote’s whereabouts to contact them immediately. State police have deployed troopers to protect other judges in Washington County as a precautionary measure.
Judge Wilkinson was a well-respected member of his community, known for his down-to-earth nature and friendly demeanor. His sudden and tragic death has left the community devastated.
This incident is not an isolated one, as attacks against judges in the United States have been on the rise. The US Marshals Service reported over 1,300 threats or potential threats against judges in the past fiscal year. It is crucial to ensure the safety of judges and to bring those responsible for these heinous acts to justice.
Governor Wes Moore expressed shock and sadness over Judge Wilkinson’s killing and vowed to support his family during this difficult time. The Maryland Judiciary is working closely with law enforcement to ensure the safety of judges, staff, and visitors.
These incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting those who serve in the judicial system and the need to address the rising threats against them effectively.
