LEONARDTOWN, MD – A 19-year-old California, Maryland, man faces multiple firearms charges following a deputy-involved shooting at San Souci Plaza on July 23, 2025. The incident, which unfolded during an attempted arrest, left the suspect hospitalized and a veteran deputy on administrative leave as investigations continue.
Incident Details
On July 23, 2025, at approximately 6:10 p.m., deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a retail store in San Souci Plaza, California, to locate a suspect wanted on a search warrant. The suspect, identified as Nathaniel Mekhi Golphin, 19, of California, fled when approached by deputies. According to the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, Golphin displayed a firearm during the pursuit, prompting Detective Corporal Warren Forinash, an eight-year veteran, to discharge his agency weapon, striking Golphin once. Deputies recovered the suspect’s firearm at the scene and provided immediate aid until emergency medical personnel arrived. Golphin was airlifted by Maryland State Police Aviation Command to a trauma center, where he remains in stable condition.
Charges Filed
A warrant has been issued charging Golphin with six firearms-related offenses:
- Handgun on person
- Loaded handgun on person
- Possession of a firearm by a person under 21 years of age
- Firearm possession with a prior violent felony conviction
- Illegal possession of ammunition
- Knowingly altering a manufacturer’s identification number on a firearm
These charges stem from Golphin’s alleged possession of an illegal firearm during the incident. Authorities have not released details about the underlying search warrant that prompted the initial response.
Deputy on Leave
Cpl. Forinash, who fired the shot, has been placed on administrative leave per Sheriff’s Office policy. The Office of Professional Responsibilities and the Criminal Investigations Division are conducting parallel investigations to review the incident’s circumstances, including the use of force and the events leading to the confrontation. This standard procedure ensures transparency and accountability in officer-involved shootings.
Ongoing Investigation
The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident, with support from the Maryland State Police. Authorities are seeking additional witnesses who may have observed the event but have not yet provided statements. Detective Andrew Burgess is leading the investigation and can be reached at 301-475-4200, ext. 8041, or via email at Andrew.Burgess@stmaryscountymd.gov for anyone with relevant information.
Next Steps
As Golphin remains hospitalized, the issued warrant will be served upon his release or transfer to a detention facility. The investigations by the Sheriff’s Office and Maryland State Police will determine whether additional charges or procedural actions are warranted. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available, with the Sheriff’s Office committed to maintaining transparency with the public.
