A 37-year-old Waldorf man faces aggravated assault and multiple weapons charges after authorities say he fired a gunshot at a victim’s vehicle during an argument outside a convenience store.
Charles County Sheriff’s Office officers arrested Marcellus Franklin Thomas on March 24, 2026, in connection with the incident that occurred about 10:30 p.m. on March 21, 2026, on St. Ignatius Drive in Waldorf.
According to investigators, Thomas argued with the victim outside the store. He retrieved a firearm from his car, pointed it at the victim and fired one round at the victim’s vehicle. No one inside the vehicle was injured.
Deputies identified Thomas as the suspect through investigation and obtained both an arrest warrant and a search warrant for his residence. During the search, officers recovered five firearms, several ballistic vests and ammunition.
Thomas is prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior convictions. He was charged with aggravated assault and multiple weapons violations. On March 25, 2026, a judge ordered him held without bond.
Anyone with additional information about the case is asked to contact Officer Hopp at 301-609-3282 ext. 0751.
The arrest highlights ongoing efforts by the Charles County Sheriff’s Office to address gun-related violence in Waldorf and surrounding areas of Southern Maryland. Convenience store parking lots have been scenes of several disputes in recent years, prompting increased patrols in commercial corridors.
Sheriff’s office data shows weapons violations remain a priority for investigators, especially when combined with assaults that endanger bystanders. Recovering multiple firearms and ballistic vests during the search underscores the potential risk level in the case.
This incident adds to a series of reported shootings and assaults in Charles County during early 2026. Local law enforcement continues to urge residents to report suspicious activity promptly and to avoid escalating arguments in public spaces.
Thomas remains in custody pending further court proceedings. The investigation remains active as detectives review evidence from the scene and the search.
Southern Maryland residents are reminded that pointing or discharging a firearm during a dispute carries severe penalties under Maryland law, particularly for those already prohibited from firearm possession.