LEONARDTOWN, MD — Winston Warren Smith, a 39-year-old resident of Lexington Park, Maryland, pleaded guilty to attempted second-degree murder and now faces up to 30 years in prison. The incident stemmed from an altercation at a bar on Great Mills Road in Lexington Park in April 2024.
According to reports, a verbal disagreement between Smith and the victim escalated into a physical altercation. Both men were asked to leave the bar. After exiting, Smith, accompanied by an unidentified accomplice, attacked the victim. Smith stabbed the victim multiple times with a knife, causing life-threatening injuries.
Officers from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office arrived on the scene within minutes of the attack. They found the victim outside the bar, suffering from numerous stab wounds. First responders quickly administered aid before transporting the victim to shock trauma for further treatment.
The victim informed investigators that the altercation began over a spilled drink, a seemingly minor incident that led to violence. Following the victim’s statement and further investigation, Smith was identified as the individual responsible for the stabbing and was arrested shortly afterward.
Smith’s guilty plea was announced by St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling. Smith remains held without bond as he awaits sentencing.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant State’s Attorneys Zachary Varda and Kirstin Riddle. Detective Benjamin Raley of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office led the investigation, with The Honorable Michael J. Stamm presiding over the case.
Smith’s sentencing hearing is scheduled, where he could face a maximum of 30 years in prison for his actions. The case underscores the severity of violent altercations and the swift response of law enforcement in St. Mary’s County.
