No Charges for Detective in Masked Archer Killing in Arbutus

Maryland AG declines to prosecute Baltimore County officer who fatally shot armed suspect

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Maryland's Attorney General has declined to bring criminal charges against the Baltimore County detective who fatally shot a 51-year-old man armed with a bow and arrow in Arbutus in April 2025. The Independent Investigations Division concluded the detective used justified deadly force when the suspect, Arvel Jones Sr., turned towards him with a loaded bow.

Why it matters

The shooting incident sparked alarm in the Arbutus community, with nearby schools going into lockdown and reports of bullets hitting homes. The case raises questions about police tactics, body camera usage, and public safety protocols when officers confront armed suspects in residential areas.

The details

On April 23, 2025, police received 911 calls about a masked man shooting arrows at passing vehicles in Arbutus. Officers located the suspect, Arvel Jones Sr., near Leeds Avenue. When Detective Todd Wiedel approached Jones, the 51-year-old turned towards the officer with a loaded bow. Wiedel's gun and Jones' bow were fired nearly simultaneously, with the officer's gunfire striking and killing Jones. The Independent Investigations Division concluded Wiedel had 'no reasonable alternative' but to use deadly force given the short timeframe and close proximity.

  • On April 23, 2025, police received 911 calls about a masked man shooting arrows at passing vehicles.
  • On April 23, 2025, officers located the suspect, Arvel Jones Sr., near Leeds Avenue.
  • On April 23, 2025, when Detective Todd Wiedel approached Jones, the 51-year-old turned towards the officer with a loaded bow.

The players

Anthony G. Brown

Maryland Attorney General who declined to bring criminal charges against the detective.

Arvel Jones Sr.

A 51-year-old man who was fatally shot by the detective after turning towards him with a loaded bow.

Detective Todd Wiedel

The Baltimore County detective who fatally shot Arvel Jones Sr. after the suspect turned towards him with a loaded bow.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Independent Investigations Division's work is limited to a criminal-prosecutorial review. It does not decide whether the Baltimore County Police Department should impose internal discipline, nor does it address any potential civil claims that Jones's family might pursue.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges police face when confronting armed suspects in residential areas, and the need for comprehensive policies and training to protect both officers and the surrounding community. The lack of body camera footage also raises concerns about transparency and accountability.