Oxon Hill, Md. — A shooting in the food court of the MGM National Harbor Hotel and Casino on Wednesday left a young man dead, prompting an immediate response from Prince George’s County police. Authorities reported that the incident occurred just before noon, as the victim was placing his order.
Police Chief George Nader detailed during a press briefing that the shooting was not random. He indicated the suspect targeted the victim, who is believed to be in his 20s. Nader described how the assailant arrived and quickly opened fire, leaving the victim mortally wounded at the scene.
Initially, there were reports that a second individual had been grazed by a bullet, but authorities later confirmed that only one person was shot. Officers discovered the victim shortly after the gunfire erupted. Emergency medical personnel pronounced him dead at the location.
The shooter fled the scene in a vehicle, and police are actively pursuing leads. Surveillance video captured images of the suspect; however, a detailed description has not yet been provided. During his remarks, Nader emphasized the targeted nature of the crime, suggesting that the assailant had specifically sought out the victim.
While police conducted their investigation, several Metrobus routes were disrupted, including the P90, P94, C11, P96, and P97 lines. In addition, local schools temporarily went into lockdown as a safety measure while authorities searched the area. Nader assured the public that there was no ongoing threat.
Only the food court at MGM National Harbor has been closed off to the public due to the investigation. The remainder of the hotel and casino operations continue unaffected, with Chief Nader noting that violent crime in the area has decreased by 32% this year. He expressed confidence in the safety of the facility, stating, “MGM is safe. The harbor is safe.”
Nader further explained that such violent incidents are rare in the vicinity, and he believes that the unfortunate event would have likely occurred regardless of where the individuals encountered one another. The police continue gathering evidence and pursuing the investigation, hoping to bring the suspect into custody promptly.