GAITHERSBURG, MD – Detectives from the Gaithersburg Police Department – Investigative Section are investigating a suspicious situation that occurred the afternoon of Wednesday, April 14, outside of an apartment building located at 392 North Summit Avenue in Gaithersburg.
At approximately 3:00 p.m., officers from the Gaithersburg Police Department responded to the parking lot of 392 North Summit Avenue for the report of a traffic hazard.
An unknown driver had parked his vehicle in a way that was obstructing the flow of traffic in the parking lot. The officers located the driver in the driver’s seat of his vehicle and attempted to speak with him. He appeared to be under the influence of an unknown substance.
As officers spoke with the driver, they heard what sounded like a gunshot in their immediate vicinity. The officers immediately sought cover and attempted to visually locate the origin of the sound. While seeking cover, the officers observed an unknown person on an apartment balcony quickly enter an unknown apartment
Additional patrol units responded, set up a perimeter around the apartment complex, and worked to get residents out of harm’s way. Officers from various agencies, including the Montgomery County Police Department, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Maryland-National Capital Park Police – Montgomery County Division, and Maryland Natural Resources Police, assisted in the efforts.
A shelter in place for area residents was initiated. Montgomery County Police – Emergency Response Team officers responded, with SWAT officers assisting with apartment searches. After an extensive search, the shelter in place was lifted. No injuries were reported to police.
The Police Department is releasing a portion of the officer’s body-worn camera footage that captured the sound. It indicates where officers were at the time the sound was heard, and what actions the officers took to remove themselves from the potential threat. Detectives continue to investigate this incident and urge anyone with information to contact the Gaithersburg Police – Investigation Section at 301-258-6400. Those who wish to remain anonymous may call the Gaithersburg Police Tip Line at 301-330-4471.