CLINTON, Md., May 28, 2025 — The Prince George’s County Police Department’s Homicide Unit has charged 53-year-old Chelley Thorne of Accokeek with the murder of 30-year-old Anthony Traevon Dawson in a fatal shooting in Clinton earlier this month. The incident occurred on May 12, 2025, at approximately 9:40 p.m. in the 9800 block of Piscataway Road, where officers found Dawson suffering from a gunshot wound in a parking lot. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Thorne faces charges of first- and second-degree murder, along with related offenses, and is currently in custody at the Department of Corrections on a no-bond status. The preliminary investigation indicates that Thorne and Dawson were known to each other, though the motive for the shooting remains under investigation.
On the evening of the incident, police responded to reports of a shooting and discovered Dawson outside, fatally wounded. The Homicide Unit’s investigation quickly identified Thorne as the suspect, leading to his arrest and subsequent charges. Authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting, as the investigation is ongoing.
The Prince George’s County Police Department is seeking information from the public to assist in the case. Anyone with relevant details is encouraged to contact the Homicide Unit at 301-516-2512. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers at www.pgcrimesolvers.com, the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or by calling 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). Callers are asked to reference case number 25-0025346.
Clinton, a community in southern Prince George’s County, has seen increased police efforts to address violent crime. The Homicide Unit’s work in this case reflects the department’s commitment to investigating and resolving incidents that impact public safety. The charging of Thorne marks a step toward justice for Dawson’s family and the community, though many questions about the motive and events leading to the shooting remain unanswered.
The police department’s call for public assistance underscores the importance of community cooperation in solving violent crimes. Anonymous tip options, including the P3 Tips app and Crime Solvers hotline, are designed to encourage witnesses to come forward without fear of retaliation. These tools have been instrumental in past investigations, helping detectives gather critical information while protecting the identity of contributors.
As the investigation continues, the Homicide Unit is focused on uncovering the full circumstances of the shooting. The relationship between Thorne and Dawson, described only as an acquaintance, is a key area of inquiry. Detectives are working to determine what led to the deadly encounter in the parking lot on Piscataway Road.
