Elkton, Maryland – Maryland State Police have arrested a suspect in connection with an early morning shooting in Cecil County that wounded two people on Monday.
The preliminary investigation indicates that shortly after 1:00 a.m. Monday, September 2, 2019, Maryland State Police Troopers from the North East Barrack responded to the report of a shooting in the unit block of Cox Lane in Elkton. Troopers and responding emergency medical personnel found both victims at the scene. A description of a suspect was obtained and police began an immediate search that continued through the night.
Information developed by troopers indicated the victims were approached by the suspect and, for reasons unknown at this time, were shot, police said. The suspect reportedly fled the scene on foot. The victims were uncooperative with troopers.
Maryland State Police crime scene technicians responded and Criminal Enforcement Division investigators responded to conduct the investigation. K9 units, The Maryland State Police Special Tactical Assault Team Element (STATE Team), and a Maryland State Police Aviation Command helicopter also assisted in the search.
Officials said information was developed that he may be inside an abandoned trailer in the unit block of Keithly Avenue in Elkton.
STATE Team members established a perimeter around that location. Shortly before 10 a.m. on Monday, the suspect, later identified as Zachary Hurt, 23, of Elkton, walked out of a wooded area near the trailer and surrendered to troopers without incident.
Police said Hurt was not armed when he was arrested. Investigators continued to search for the firearm used as part of their ongoing investigation, however, it is not clear if they ultimately found the weapon.
Hurt was charged with two counts each of attempted second-degree murder, first-degree assault, second-degree assault, reckless endangerment, and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
He was processed at the North East Barrack and later be taken to the central booking center for his initial appearance before a court commissioner.
The victims are identified as Michael Sells, 27, and Alexis Blickenstaff, 24, neither of whom have a fixed address, but had been staying in the Elkton area.
Each victim sustained a gunshot wound and each was taken to Christiana Hospital for treatment of what medical personnel believe are non-life threatening injuries, police said on Monday.
Officials said a motive for this incident is not clear at this time.
Anyone who may have further information about this shooting is urged to contact the Maryland State Police North East Barrack at 410-996-7800.