Police line - crime scene
Police Line - Crime Scene

18-year-old gunned down in Maryland suburb

by
January 5, 2026
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18-year-old shot to death in Gaithersburg identified as homicide investigation begins

Gaithersburg, MD – An 18-year-old man was found shot to death in Gaithersburg Tuesday night, prompting a homicide investigation by Montgomery County Police.

At approximately 7:30 p.m. on January 2, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue crews responded to a call for a “person down” in the 23600 block of Rolling Fork Way. Upon arrival, first responders located a deceased male with an apparent gunshot wound. Police were called to the scene and launched a homicide investigation.

The victim has been identified as Taeyon Malachi Prather, 18, of Gaithersburg.

Detectives have not released any information regarding possible suspects, motive, or the circumstances leading up to the shooting. The investigation remains active and ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Montgomery County Police Department’s Major Crimes Division. Tipsters wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Solvers of Montgomery County.

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Key Points

  • Taeyon Malachi Prather, 18, found shot to death on Rolling Fork Way
  • Fire and rescue crews responded to a “person down” call Tuesday night
  • Montgomery County Police have launched a homicide investigation
Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News