An 18-year-old Hagerstown man, Michael Anthony Jones, has been charged with multiple counts of attempted murder, assault, firearms, and drug charges after a Monday night shootout in downtown Hagerstown. Jones, a South Hagerstown High student, has no previous criminal record and was hoping to graduate this year.
Innocent Bystander Injured in Shootout
Hagerstown Police responded to a shooting incident at East Franklin Street around 7:26 p.m. on Monday, where they discovered a male victim who had been shot in both legs. The man, an innocent bystander, was taken to Meritus Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.
Surveillance Footage Reveals Shootout Details
According to court records, surveillance footage from Mulberry Lofts showed two groups involved in a shootout in the alley next to the building. One group was in a white Honda Fit, and the driver and at least one passenger were seen brandishing handguns. The other group consisted of at least four people, some of whom fired back at the group by the Honda.
Police Search Leads to Discovery of Weapons and Drugs
Police later determined the Honda was registered to Jones’ mother. A subsequent search of Jones’ home led to the discovery of weapons and drugs in his bedroom. Items seized included an AR-15 style semi-automatic rifle, a “ghost gun” with a fully automatic seer, clothing and shoes matching the Honda driver’s attire, ammunition, a bag containing suspected marijuana, cash, and firearm conversion kits.
Defense Attorney Argues for Less Restrictive Measures
During a bond hearing, Jones’ defense attorney, Ira Cooke, argued that the charges were speculative and suggested less restrictive measures, such as releasing Jones with an ankle bracelet and restricting his movements between home and school. However, Judge Terry A. Myers ordered Jones to be held without bond at the Washington County Detention Center.
The Deputy State’s Attorney, Kenny Shapiro, questioned defense attorney Ira Cooke’s claim of overcharging, given that four people were shot at during the incident. Shapiro also expressed his frustration, saying ‘Hagerstown reminds me of a Wild West film.’
The Charges
- Four counts of attempted first-degree murder
- Attempted second-degree murder
- Assault
- Firearms charges related to the weapons found in his bedroom
Jones is also charged with possession of cannabis with intent to distribute based on the suspected marijuana, digital scale, and empty baggies found in his home.
