The Prince George’s County Police Department’s Homicide Unit is investigating a fatal shooting that occurred early Sunday morning at a car meet. The incident resulted in the death of 26-year-old John Phipps of Waldorf. Authorities are offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to an arrest and indictment in this case.
On May 19, 2024, around 1:45 am, officers responded to reports of a shooting at a shopping center parking lot in the 6400 block of Marlboro Pike. Upon arrival, they found Phipps inside a vehicle, suffering from gunshot wounds. He was transported to a hospital where he was pronounced dead shortly after. Another adult male was also shot during the incident, but his injuries are not life-threatening.
The police are actively working to identify the suspect or suspects involved and to determine the motive behind the shooting.
“These car meets are a true concern to law enforcement both in our region and across the country. When the department is made aware of specific, credible intelligence, the agency plans accordingly and allocates resources to either prevent or disperse the gathering. In addition, follow-up investigations are conducted and those who break any laws are charged accordingly. As is evident in this case, these gatherings can turn violent. We don’t want to see anyone injured or killed. The PGPD has worked with lawmakers to strengthen the laws and penalties surrounding these car meets and will continue to do so,” said Chief Malik Aziz.
The police department emphasizes the potential dangers associated with car meets and the measures taken to mitigate them. When credible information about these gatherings is received, the department allocates resources to prevent or disperse them. Follow-up investigations are conducted to ensure those who break the law are charged accordingly. The tragic event on Sunday underscores the risks associated with these gatherings.
Anyone with information regarding this fatal shooting is urged to contact the Homicide Unit detectives at 301-516-2512. The police hope that the reward offered will encourage individuals to come forward with valuable information that could lead to solving the case.
Prince George’s County Police Department continues to work closely with lawmakers to strengthen regulations and penalties surrounding car meets, aiming to prevent further violence and ensure public safety.
