A late-night confrontation outside a Liberty Road restaurant in Eldersburg ended with gunfire, two men in the hospital, and a 52-year-old Carroll County man in handcuffs, according to investigators. Authorities say the suspect was arrested right outside the business and now faces felony assault charges.
Police: Arrest Made at the Scene
Maryland State Police said troopers from the Westminster Barrack were called around 9:30 p.m. on Friday, April 24, to the unit block of Liberty Road in Eldersburg after reports of shots fired. When they arrived, they found two men, 60-year-old Brooks Sandoval of Hampstead and 50-year-old David Hopwood of Sykesville, with what appeared to be gunshot wounds. Both were taken to a nearby trauma center, according to the department.
Video, Witnesses and a Patio Struggle
Charging documents and local coverage reviewed by WMAR2 News indicate the clash started in the restaurant's downstairs lounge and then spilled onto a rear patio, where surveillance video captured a struggle. Witnesses told investigators that Hanks appeared heavily intoxicated and that he threatened to shoot someone before the fight broke out, the station reported.
Felony Charges and Public Safety Message
Troopers found Matthew Tyler Hanks outside the business and took him into custody without incident. In consultation with the Carroll County State's Attorney's Office, he was charged with two counts of first-degree assault, along with additional related offenses, according to CBS Baltimore. Investigators also recovered the handgun they believe was used in the shooting and said there is no ongoing threat to the public, the outlet reported.
Fire EMS Ties and What Happens Next
Court records and local reporting show that Hanks, a Sykesville resident, admitted to shooting both men but told investigators he fired in self-defense, according to WMAR2 News. The station also reported that Hanks is an active member of the Carroll County Department of Fire and EMS and that he is being held without bail ahead of a May 21 court appearance.
Investigators Still Seeking Tips
Maryland State Police have asked anyone with information about the case to call the Westminster Barrack at 410-386-3000. Callers may remain confidential while the investigation continues. Troopers, Carroll County deputies, and MSP crime scene technicians processed the scene as investigators work to gather additional evidence.
