Title: Circuit Court Judge Murdered: Hagerstown City Park Provides Respite Amid Tragedy
Subtitle: Andrew “Drew” F. Wilkinson, a respected circuit court judge, killed in shocking incident
Hagerstown, MD – In a heartbreaking turn of events, Washington County Circuit Court judge Andrew “Drew” F. Wilkinson was tragically murdered on Thursday night, casting a somber cloud over the community. Authorities received a distress call reporting a shooting at the 19100 block of Olde Waterford Road, north of Hagerstown, at approximately 8 p.m. Promptly responding to the scene, deputies discovered Wilkinson, 52, in a residential driveway with apparent gunshot wounds. Despite being rushed to Meritus Medical Center, he was later pronounced dead.
Sergeant Carly Hose, spokesperson for the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, has revealed that an active investigation is underway, though specific details are not currently being disclosed. Assisting in the case is the Maryland State Police, aiding in the pursuit of justice for the fallen judge.
Wilkinson, a husband and father, was a prominent figure within the community. Sworn into office on January 10, 2020, after being appointed by former Governor Larry Hogan, Wilkinson possessed extensive legal experience. Graduating from Emory University School of Law in 1997, the skilled attorney specialized in real estate, zoning, family law, and civil litigation.
Prior to his judicial career, Wilkinson served as a private attorney, honing his expertise through a solo practice and working alongside land-use attorney Jason Divelbiss. With a plethora of experience at all levels of Maryland courts, from district to the Court of Appeals, Wilkinson’s passion for serving the community made him a respected figure within the legal profession.
This tragic incident strikes a chord in the memory of Hagerstown’s residents, as it is not the first time a local circuit court judge has faced an attack. On December 22, 1989, Judge John P. Corderman survived a pipe bomb explosion in his third-floor apartment, sustaining injuries to his hand and abdomen. Regrettably, no one was ever charged in connection with the bombing. Judge Corderman’s son, Paul, who currently serves as a state senator representing Washington and Frederick counties, expressed his support for the law enforcement community in a heartfelt message on social media.
Despite the devastating loss, the community found solace in the picturesque setting of Hagerstown City Park, where mother Canada geese were spotted tending to their adorable offspring on Mother’s Day, May 14, 2023. The park’s tranquil atmosphere remains undisturbed amid the shocking events and serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience of its residents.
As the investigation into Andrew “Drew” F. Wilkinson’s murder unfolds, the community awaits greater clarity and a resolution to this appalling crime. A news conference is expected to shed light on the incident in the days to come, but for now, the memory of a beloved judge and the well-being of his grieving family remain at the forefront of everyone’s thoughts.