Murder Mystery Writer's Death Becomes a Mystery

Police seek suspect seen on video at Maryland senior living facility

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The real-life death of an 87-year-old retired lawyer, Navy Reserve officer, and self-published crime novelist Robert Fuller has turned into a murder mystery. Fuller was found shot in the head in his apartment at an upscale assisted-living facility in Potomac, Maryland on February 14. Investigators believe he was specifically targeted, but they don't know the motive or if the suspect acted alone.

Why it matters

The death of a well-known local figure and author has shocked the community, and police are under pressure to solve the case and determine if the senior living facility's security measures were adequate. The incident also raises broader questions about safety and crime prevention in assisted-living facilities.

The details

Police released surveillance footage of a suspect seen walking the grounds around the time of the killing - a slim figure in dark pants and a yellowish checkered shirt, with long dark hair and a noticeable gait. Investigators initially considered the possibility of suicide, but no gun was found at the scene. The main question now is why anyone would target Fuller, who friends describe as a formal, outspoken, generous, and "flamboyant" man who was active in local causes.

  • On February 14, 2026, Robert Fuller was found shot in the head in his apartment at the Cogir of Potomac assisted-living facility.
  • On February 24, 2026, police released surveillance footage of a suspect seen around the time of the killing.

The players

Robert Fuller

An 87-year-old retired lawyer, Navy Reserve officer, and self-published crime novelist who was found shot in the head in his apartment at an upscale assisted-living facility in Potomac, Maryland.

Capt. Sean Gagen

The head of the Montgomery County Police Department's Major Crimes division, who stated that someone made a "conscious decision" to enter the facility and shoot Fuller.

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What they’re saying

“Somebody made a conscious decision to make their way into this facility and go to Mr. Fuller's room and shoot him.”

— Capt. Sean Gagen, Head of the Montgomery County Police Department's Major Crimes division

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the suspect out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of senior living facility security and the need for a thorough investigation to determine the motive and whether the suspect acted alone in order to provide closure for the community and prevent similar incidents in the future.