WILLIAMSPORT, MD — A deceased person discovered during an evidentiary search in the Williamsport area has been identified as Pedro Argote, the suspect in the murder of Maryland Circuit Court Judge Andrew Wilkinson.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the discovery today at 11:00 AM. Argote was located in a wooded area between Clear Spring Road and Bottom Road, about a mile northwest from where authorities previously found the suspect’s vehicle.
Argote shot and killed Judge Wilkinson after the judge ruled in favor of Argote’s wife in a divorce proceeding.
As reported earlier by Shore News Network:
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office intensifies its hunt for a suspect, Pedro Argote, 49, in relation to the homicide case on Olde Waterford Road.
According to police, Argote is a suspect in the killing of Washington County Circuit Judge Andrew Wilkinson who was to preside over the suspect’s divorce hearing on Thursday. In that hearing, Wilkinson signed an order barring Argote from his wife and children unless medically necessary and ruled in favor of his wife on other conditions.
Judge Wilkinson was found shot that night in his driveway on Olde Waterford Road near Hagerstown.
Argote, described as 5’7”, 130 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes, is believed to possibly be operating a silver 2009 Mercedes GL450 with Maryland registration plates 4EH0408.
The authorities have cautioned the public against approaching the suspect, urging anyone with knowledge about Argote’s whereabouts to inform law enforcement immediately.
The Maryland Judiciary released the following statement:
“The Maryland Judiciary mourns the tragic death of Judge Andrew Wilkinson. As we grieve his loss, we ask that you keep the Wilkinson family in your prayers and please respect their privacy. 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.”
While the investigation continues to be in active status, law enforcement is bound by legal constraints to withhold certain details from the public. To provide updates on the ongoing investigation, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office will convene a press conference at 11:00 a.m. at the Washington County Government Administration Building located at 100 West Washington Street, Hagerstown, MD, 21740.