Mama Canada Geese Caring for Their Young at Hagerstown City Park
Witness the heartwarming sight of Canada geese tending to their little ones at Hagerstown City Park on the special occasion of Mother’s Day, which falls on May 14, 2023. It’s a true testament to the beauty of nature.
Tragedy Strikes: Washington County Circuit Court Judge Murdered
The tranquil atmosphere of Hagerstown City Park was shattered on Thursday night when a shocking incident took place. Andrew “Drew” F. Wilkinson, a dedicated Washington County Circuit Court judge, was brutally murdered.
Law enforcement authorities promptly responded to a reported shooting at the 19100 block of Olde Waterford Road, just north of Hagerstown. Wilkinson, aged 52, was discovered in a residential driveway, his body bearing evident gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save his life, he tragically succumbed to his injuries at Meritus Medical Center.
The investigation into this heinous crime is currently ongoing, and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office is being assisted by the Maryland State Police. Due to the active nature of the investigation, further details are not available at this time.
Farewell to an Esteemed Judge
Before his untimely demise, Andrew F. Wilkinson was a highly respected circuit court judge. Sworn in on January 10, 2020, after an appointment by former Governor Larry Hogan, Wilkinson brought his expertise and dedication to the role.
A distinguished alumnus of the University of North Carolina, he obtained his law degree from Emory University School of Law in 1997. With a comprehensive background in Maryland courts, Wilkinson was well-versed in various legal areas, including real estate, zoning, family law, and civil litigation.
Wilkinson’s legal journey began with a solo practice and later included collaborating with renowned land-use attorney Jason Divelbiss. Before his appointment as a judge, he gained invaluable experience as a law clerk for several esteemed judges at the local circuit court.
A True Servant of the Community
When asked about his transition to becoming a judge in his hometown, Wilkinson humbly expressed his honor and happiness to serve the community. His genuine desire to make a difference resonated in his words and actions.
Wilkinson was survived by his loving wife and children. As news of his tragic demise spread, an outpouring of support and condolences flooded in from colleagues, friends, and the community at large.
A Painful History Revisited
This disturbing incident is a painful reminder of a similar attack on a local circuit court judge that occurred almost 34 years ago. In 1989, Judge John P. Corderman fell victim to a horrific bomb attack.
A package containing pipe bombs exploded in Judge Corderman’s apartment on the third floor of a building in Hagerstown. The explosion resulted in severe injuries, including shrapnel wounds to his hand and abdomen, as well as partial hearing loss.
Tragically, no one was ever held accountable for this heinous act. Judge Corderman passed away in 2012 without seeing justice served in his case. His son, Paul Corderman, now a state senator, expressed heartfelt prayers and support for the local judicial and law enforcement community.
