Man shot after spraying tow truck workers with OC spray during Capitol Heights confrontation
CAPITOL HEIGHTS, MD – Prince George’s County Police are investigating a non-fatal shooting that occurred Wednesday night following a confrontation between a man and two tow truck company employees in a Capitol Heights parking lot.
On January 21, 2026, at approximately 9:40 p.m., officers responded to the 4800 block of Addison Road and found a man suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported for treatment, and his injuries are not considered life-threatening, police said.
The preliminary investigation indicates that the man approached the two tow truck workers during a dispute over a possible tow. During the encounter, the man reportedly sprayed both employees with OC spray, also known as pepper spray. In response, one of the workers shot the man.
No charges have been filed at this time, and detectives from the department’s Gun Crimes Unit are consulting with the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office as the investigation continues.
Authorities have not released the identities of those involved, and it remains unclear whether the firearm used was legally possessed or if the shooting may be considered self-defense.
Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact the Gun Crimes Unit at 301-772-8960. Tips can also be submitted anonymously via the Crime Solvers website or the P3 Tips app.
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Key Points
- A man was shot after allegedly spraying OC spray at two tow truck employees in Capitol Heights
- The shooting happened around 9:40 p.m. on January 21 in a parking lot on Addison Road
- Police say the investigation is ongoing, and no charges have been filed
