Baltimore County Officer Won't Face Charges for Deadly Shooting

Authorities say the officer acted within the law when he fatally shot a man armed with a bow and arrow.

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

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The Maryland Attorney General's Office has determined that no charges will be filed against a Baltimore County police officer who shot and killed a man armed with a bow and arrow in April 2025. The incident occurred in the Arbutus neighborhood when the officer, who was not in uniform, encountered the armed man and both exchanged gunfire, with the officer striking and killing the suspect.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing debate around police use of force, particularly in situations involving individuals with mental health issues or unconventional weapons. The incident also raised concerns from neighbors about the potential for stray police gunfire to endanger bystanders in a residential area.

The details

According to investigators, Detective Todd Wiedel was in the Arbutus area, not in uniform and in an unmarked vehicle, when he encountered 45-year-old Arvel Jones Sr. wearing a mask and firing arrows at passing cars. Wiedel exited his vehicle and pointed his service weapon at Jones, who in turn pointed his bow and arrow at the officer. Both then discharged their weapons, with Wiedel's shots striking and killing Jones. No one else was injured in the exchange.

  • The incident occurred in April 2025 in the 5100 block of Leeds Avenue in Arbutus, Maryland.
  • The Maryland Attorney General's Office announced its decision not to file charges against the officer in March 2026.

The players

Detective Todd Wiedel

The Baltimore County police officer who shot and killed Arvel Jones Sr. during the April 2025 incident.

Arvel Jones Sr.

A 45-year-old man who was armed with a bow and arrow and fired at passing cars in the Arbutus neighborhood before being fatally shot by Detective Wiedel.

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What they’re saying

“I thought it was weird. I thought he might have been taken in somebody's house, or, you know, people, bow hunt and everything.”

— Jim Mechlinski, Neighbor (WJZ)

“The bullet actually did penetrate the window, and it went straight through and hit the entertainment center.”

— Mary Bunting, Homeowner (WJZ)

“Whoever fired the weapon wasn't didn't seem like they were concerned about where the bullets could travel.”

— Paul Cotton, Neighbor (WJZ)

What’s next

The Maryland Attorney General's Office has concluded its investigation into the incident and determined that the officer acted within the law, so no further action is expected.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex and often dangerous situations police face when confronting individuals with unconventional weapons, as well as the need for continued scrutiny and transparency around use of force policies to ensure public safety while also protecting civil liberties.