Baltimore, MD – State officials have released the names of both the man killed and the officer involved in a fatal police shooting in Riverdale on Tuesday.

The decedent has been identified as 45-year-old Tesfa Leith of Riverdale, according to the Independent Investigations Division (IID) of the Maryland Office of the Attorney General. The officer who discharged his weapon was David Morris, Chief of the Cheverly Police Department. Morris has served as CPD chief for two years following 38 years of prior law enforcement service.

Investigators say the incident unfolded around 4:55 p.m. on the 6600 block of Greenland Street as officers from Cheverly and Prince George’s County responded to a stabbing report. On scene, police encountered Leith carrying two knives. Despite repeated commands to drop the weapons, he advanced toward officers.

A PGPD officer deployed a taser, but it was ineffective. Chief Morris then fired his weapon, striking Leith. He was pronounced dead at the scene after emergency aid efforts failed.

Two knives were recovered, and no officers were injured.

By law, the IID does not typically investigate incidents involving police chiefs. However, the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office referred the case to the IID citing independence and public confidence. The investigation remains active.

Witnesses with information are urged to contact IID investigators at 410-576-7070 or [email protected].

A deadly confrontation in Riverdale has now entered the hands of state investigators.

Cumberland, MD – A street confrontation in Cumberland ended in violence Thursday when a man pulled a knife and stabbed another during an argument with a driver, according to police.

The incident unfolded near Frederick Street and Queen City Drive, where officers responded to reports of a stabbing. Around the same time, a man entered police headquarters claiming he had nearly been struck by a vehicle in the same area. That man, identified as 37-year-old Justin Blackburn of Cumberland, was later determined to be the suspect in the stabbing.

Investigators say Blackburn argued with a driver making a turn before producing a knife and stabbing the victim. The injured man’s condition was not released. Blackburn was arrested, and a search of his person revealed multiple bladed weapons.

He was transported to the Allegany County Detention Center, where he is being held without bond. Blackburn faces charges of first-degree assault, second-degree assault, reckless endangerment, and disorderly conduct.

A roadside clash ended with weapons drawn and one man behind bars.