Pittsville, MD – A Wicomico County sheriff’s deputy was murdered while trying to apprehend a fugitive wanted for multiple felonies in multiple jurisdictions on Sunday night, according to his department.
The attack occurred on June 12 at the Talbot Apartments on Gumboro Road, WJLA reported.
The Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) said in a Facebook post early Monday morning that Deputy First Class Glenn Hilliard was “attempting to apprehend a fugitive who was wanted on multiple felony warrants in multiple jurisdictions” when he was “gunned down.”
The shooting occurred during a foot pursuit, WJLA reported.
“Deputy Hilliard was fatally shot while attempting to apprehend the suspect,” the WCSO confirmed.
The suspect, later identified as Austin Jacob Allen Davidson, was apprehended following an “extensive manhunt by dozens of law enforcement officers throughout the region,” according to the WCSO.
“The suspect was captured and is awaiting arraignment,” the WCSO said. “There is no further threat by this man to our communities.”
Deputy Hilliard, 41, would have celebrated his 42nd birthday on Wednesday.
The Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Mourns One of Its Own https://t.co/N3yQMB0GPp pic.twitter.com/p3X9562HAs
— Wicomico Sheriff (@WicoSheriff) June 13, 2022
He served the WCSO for 16 years and was most recently assigned “back to patrol upon request,” according to his department.
“The days ahead will be challenging, but for now, we are mourning the loss of an incredible human being,” the WCSO said.
The sheriff’s office described Deputy Hilliard as “an exemplary public servant” to both his city and the state of Maryland.
“As an organization, we are heartbroken over this senseless and tragic murder,” the WCSO said. “This loss exacts an enormous emotional toll on the Sheriff’s Office family, but we will do what is necessary and proper to honor Glenn and support those who knew and loved him.”
“Brave men and women like Glenn Hilliard put their lives in danger every day to protect our families, and I am extremely grateful to them for keeping our communities safe,” the agency said. “Our hearts and prayers go out to Glenn’s family during this difficult time.”
Deputy Hilliard leaves behind his spouse and three children.
#BCoPD is saddened to learn Wicomico County Deputy 1st Class Glenn Hilliard has passed away from injuries he suffered while attempting to arrest a suspect w/ multiple felony warrants on Sunday. Hilliard was a 16-yr veteran. His family and fellow deputies remain in our prayers. pic.twitter.com/dOaq86wxRh
— Baltimore County Police Department (@BaltCoPolice) June 13, 2022
The Maryland State Police Homicide Unit is handling the ongoing investigation into Deputy Hilliard’s murder, WJLA reported.
This is a developing story and we will keep you updated. For all of our updates, follow us on Facebook and go to your news feed preferences under your settings, then select that you want to see more of The Police Tribune’s posts in your news feed. Otherwise, Facebook may not show you updates.