LEONARDTOWN, Md. — A 17-year-old juvenile was arrested and charged as an adult after deputies recovered a loaded handgun from him during a shooting incident on Wednesday evening at Myrtle Point Park in California.
Deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to the park at approximately 6:53 p.m. on April 1, 2026, following multiple reports of shots fired. Upon arrival, officers located and detained several individuals in the area.
While securing the scene and conducting interviews, deputies encountered the juvenile, who was found in possession of a Glock 23 .40-caliber handgun. He was taken into custody without incident.
The juvenile faces charges including carrying a handgun upon his person, carrying a loaded handgun on his person, possession of a firearm by a minor, and reckless endangerment. Juveniles are not publicly identified under Maryland law.
No injuries were reported from the incident. Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division have taken over the case. Detective Warren Forinash is the lead investigator.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Forinash at 301-475-4200, ext. 8072, or by email at Warren.Forinash@stmaryscountymd.gov.
Anonymous tips can be submitted in several ways. Text 847411, starting the message with “SMCSO” followed by a space and the tip. Tips may also be sent online through the Sheriff’s Office website at www.FirstSheriff.com/tips, via the free SMCSO app available on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, or by calling the Crime Solvers line at 301-475-3333.
Tipsters who provide information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward through Crime Solvers and do not have to give their name.
Myrtle Point Park, a popular recreational area in St. Mary’s County, draws families and visitors for its trails, playgrounds and waterfront access. The quick response by deputies and recovery of the firearm prevented potential further harm, authorities said.
This incident adds to recent concerns about gun violence in Southern Maryland public spaces. St. Mary’s County officials have emphasized community safety at parks and recreational facilities, encouraging residents to report suspicious activity promptly.
The investigation remains ongoing as detectives work to determine the circumstances surrounding the shots fired. Additional charges may be filed as more details emerge.
Residents in California and surrounding St. Mary’s County communities are reminded that parks serve as gathering spots for youth, making incidents like this particularly concerning for local families.
Sheriff’s Office officials continue to urge the public to cooperate to help resolve the case. The multiple methods for submitting tips are designed to make it as easy and safe as possible for witnesses to come forward.
As spring weather brings more visitors to Myrtle Point Park, authorities plan to maintain a visible presence while the probe continues.
