BALTIMORE, MD – Newly released body-worn camera footage shows the moments leading up to a fatal police-involved shooting in Riverdale, where the Cheverly Police Chief fired the shot that killed a knife-wielding man in late September.
The Independent Investigations Division of the Maryland Office of the Attorney General made the footage public Friday as part of its ongoing probe into the deadly encounter.
The shooting occurred on the afternoon of September 30 in the 6600 block of Greenland Street in Riverdale, Prince George’s County.
Key Points
- The Cheverly Police Chief fatally shot a man armed with two knives after a taser was ineffective.
- The Maryland Attorney General’s Independent Investigations Division is leading the case.
- The incident stemmed from a stabbing investigation earlier that day in Cheverly.
Officers confronted armed man after stabbing report
According to investigators, Cheverly Police officers responded around 4:55 p.m. to a report linked to an earlier stabbing in Cheverly. Prince George’s County Police also arrived on the scene to assist. While investigating, officers encountered a man holding two knives. Commands to drop the weapons went unanswered, and when he advanced toward officers, a county officer deployed a taser that failed to subdue him.
The Cheverly Police Chief then discharged his firearm, striking the suspect. Officers rendered medical aid until paramedics arrived, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene. No officers were injured, and two knives were recovered nearby.
Independent probe launched amid jurisdiction questions
Under Maryland law, the Attorney General’s Independent Investigations Division typically does not investigate fatal incidents involving police chiefs. However, the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office referred the case to the IID on the same day, citing the need for independence and public confidence.
Officials say the IID will release the names of both the deceased and the discharging officer once permitted under protocol. The footage, which includes clips from officers’ body-worn cameras, was made public within the standard 20-day release window.
Public urged to assist investigation
The IID is asking anyone with information about the incident to contact investigators by phone at (410) 576-7070 or email IID@oag.state.md.us.
Officials noted that delays in releasing certain footage may occur when protecting witness identities or allowing families time to view recordings before public disclosure.
The investigation remains active.
