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Gunfire erupts during Baltimore traffic stop as trooper wounded and suspect captured

PIKESVILLE, MD – A routine traffic stop in Baltimore City erupted into gunfire when a driver allegedly opened his car door and fired at a Maryland State Trooper at close range, triggering a multi-agency manhunt that ended hours later with the suspect’s arrest.

Maurquise Emillo James, 22, of Baltimore, has been charged with attempted first-degree murder, felony assault, using a firearm during a crime of violence and related offenses. Authorities said he is being held without bond in Montgomery County, where he is also facing unrelated violent crime charges.

The shooting occurred shortly before 3:30 a.m. Tuesday at the intersection of Belle Avenue and Milford Avenue. A trooper from the Maryland State Police Golden Ring Barrack attempted to stop a 2009 Infiniti G37 for multiple traffic violations, including driving without headlights and without tags.

According to investigators, the driver pulled over at a stop sign. As the trooper approached the driver’s side door, the suspect allegedly opened the door and fired two rounds before fleeing the scene. The trooper did not return fire.

The trooper was transported for medical treatment and later released from the hospital. He has been placed on administrative leave in accordance with department procedure.

Through intelligence sharing and coordination among state, local and federal agencies, James was apprehended in Montgomery County at approximately 3 p.m. Tuesday. Police believe he was driving the Infiniti involved in the shooting.

Search warrants were executed at two residences linked to James in Baltimore City and Baltimore County. Investigators recovered the Infiniti G37 as part of the evidence.

The Maryland State Police Homicide Unit is leading the ongoing investigation with assistance from the FBI, Baltimore Police Department, Baltimore County Police Department and Montgomery County Police Department.

Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact 410-653-4200. Callers may remain confidential.

Key Points

A Maryland State Trooper was shot at during a 3:30 a.m. traffic stop in Baltimore City
Maurquise Emillo James, 22, was arrested and charged with attempted first-degree murder
The trooper was treated and released as the investigation continues

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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

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