HAGERSTOWN, MD- Washington County Circuit Court Judge Andrew Wilkinson was shot and killed Thursday evening in what the Washington County Sheriff’s office is calling a targeted attack.
Addressing the media in Hagerstown Friday morning, Sheriff Brian Albert identified the suspect as Pedro Argote, 49, of Frederick, MD.
Argote is considered armed and dangerous and may be operating a silver 2009 Mercedes GL450, displaying Maryland registration plates 4EH0408.
Sheriff Albert confirmed Judge Wilkinson had presided over a divorce hearing involving Argote’s children whose custody was awarded to the woman in the trial. Argote was not in attendance for the hearing.
Sheriff Albert also confirmed that Judge Wilkinson was shot in his driveway at around 8 p.m. Thursday evening while his wife and son were home.
“As we grieve his loss, we ask that you keep the Wilkinson family in your prayers and please respect their privacy,” Maryland Judiciary said in a statement Friday. “The Maryland Judiciary is actively engaging with law enforcement to assist in resolving this matter and to ensure the safety of our judges, staff, and visitors, which remains our top priority.”