HAGERSTOWN, MD – The Washington County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed that the man suspected of fatally shooting Maryland Circuit Court judge Andrew Wilkinson outside his Hagerstown residence has been found dead. The deceased individual has been identified as Pedro Argote, according to law enforcement authorities.
Argote’s body was discovered on Thursday around 11:00 a.m. during a search in the Williamsport, Maryland area. His identity was confirmed as part of the investigation. His remains were found in a wooded area located between Clear Spring Road and Bottom Road, approximately a mile away from where his vehicle was initially located last week.
Judge Andrew Wilkinson, aged 52, was tragically shot on his driveway on Olde Waterford Road on the evening of October 19, at around 8 p.m. The Washington County Sheriff’s office revealed that Judge Wilkinson had presided over Argote’s divorce case, a connection established through court records.
Following the discovery of Argote’s body, the Maryland Judiciary issued a statement expressing gratitude for the efforts of local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. The Maryland Judiciary also commended these agencies for tirelessly working to safeguard judiciary personnel and bring resolution to the search for the suspect in the shooting of Judge Wilkinson. The statement also conveyed ongoing condolences for the loss of their colleague and friend, while offering support to the Wilkinson family, the judges and staff of the Circuit Court for Washington County, and the wider Hagerstown and Washington County community.
Law enforcement is scheduled to provide further details during a press conference at 3:00 p.m.