TOWSON, Md. – A Maryland man has been found guilty of attempted murder, armed carjacking, and multiple firearms charges following a violent encounter with police that left two officers wounded.
A jury in Baltimore County Circuit Court convicted David Linthicum, 26, on Thursday after a weeklong trial. The incident began on February 8, 2023, when Linthicum’s father called authorities reporting that his son was armed and suicidal. Police discovered Linthicum inside his home, holding a high-powered rifle, and after he fired approximately 15 rounds toward responding officers and his father, a prolonged pursuit ensued.
The injured officer was hospitalized but later released the same night. Linthicum fled, prompting a massive search operation by federal and state law enforcement that continued for hours, leading to school lockdowns and neighborhood advisories for residents to shelter in place.
The standoff escalated when Linthicum shot a detective as he approached, wounding him critically and stealing his vehicle. The detective has since testified that he has not been able to return to full duty over 18 months after the shooting. Linthicum was eventually captured in a wooded area behind a shopping center.
During the trial, Linthicum’s defense team attempted to place blame on law enforcement for worsening his mental health crisis and accused the prosecution and the presiding judge of bias. No sentencing date has been announced yet.
Deputy State’s Attorney John Cox expressed that the jury’s decision was a victory for justice, affirming the gravity of the crime. Linthicum’s legal representatives have indicated plans to appeal the verdict and are advocating for alternative response strategies for handling mental health emergencies.
