Maryland Circuit Court Assistant Judge Andrew Wilkinson was tragically shot and killed at his home in Hagerstown, Maryland on Thursday night, according to FOX 5. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office named Pedro Argote as a suspect in the fatal shooting. Wilkinson, 52, was found dead in his driveway with apparent gunshot wounds. Authorities are still searching for Argote, 49, and his silver 2009 Mercedes GL450 with Maryland registration plates 4EH0408.
Wilkinson had presided over a judgment hearing in Argote’s divorce case on the day of the shooting. He had been an associate judge for the 4th Judicial Circuit since 2020. Born in Guam in 1971, he earned his degrees from the University of North Carolina and Emory University School of Law.
The shooting occurred in the 19100 block of Olde Waterford Road, and Wilkinson was transported to Meritus Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries. The investigation is still ongoing, and the sheriff’s office has urged the public to not approach Argote but to immediately notify law enforcement if they have any information on his whereabouts.
This tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, as a respected member of the judiciary has been senselessly killed. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is expected to hold a press conference later in the day to provide further updates on the case.
The loss of Judge Wilkinson is a devastating blow to the legal community, and his colleagues and loved ones are mourning his untimely death. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family during this difficult time.
