Double shooting in Elkton (Cecil County) Maryland

North East, MD – On September 2, 2019 just after 1:00 AM, Maryland State Police North East Barrack troopers were advised of two victims that sustained gun shot wounds while on Cox Ln in Elkton. Upon the arrival of Cecil County Emergency Services paramedics and troopers, the two victims were located, one male and a female. The initial investigation determined a white male shot the victims, and then fled on foot into a wooded area. The male victim sustained a gunshot wound to the abdomen, and the female victim sustained a gunshot wound to the upper left leg. Both victims were transported to Christiana Hospital in Delaware by ambulance.

Meanwhile, an MSP Aviation helicopter, along with K-9 units, Crime Scene techs, STATE team, and investigators from the Criminal Enforcement Division responded to assist in locating the suspect. At approximately 9:45 AM, troopers located the suspect exiting the wooded area on Keithley Lane in Elkton and took him into custody.

The suspect is identified as Zachary Hurt, 23, of Elkton, Md. He is being charged with two counts each of attempted second degree murder, first degree assault, second degree assault, reckless endangerment, and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. He is being processed at the North East Barrack and will later be taken to the central booking center for an initial appearance before a court commissioner.

The victims are identified as Michael Sells, 27, and Alexis Blickenstaff, 24, neither of whom have a fixed address, but had been staying in the Elkton area. Each victim sustained a gunshot wound and each was taken to Christiana Hospital for treatment of what medical personnel believe are non-life threatening injuries.

Information developed by troopers indicated the victims were approached by the suspect and, for reasons unknown at this time, were shot. The suspect reportedly fled the scene on foot. The victims were uncooperative with troopers.

Maryland State Police crime scene technicians responded and processed the scene. Criminal Enforcement Division investigators responded to conduct the criminal investigation. Additional assistance was obtained from K9 units and a Maryland State Police Aviation Command helicopter.

The Maryland State Police Special Tactical Assault Team Element, or STATE Team, responded to assist in the search for the suspect. Information was developed that he may be inside an abandoned trailer in the unit block of Keithly Ave., Elkton.

STATE Team members established a perimeter around that location. Shortly before 10 a.m. today, the suspect walked out of a wooded area near the trailer and surrendered to troopers without incident.

The suspect was not armed when he was arrested. Investigators are continuing to search for the firearm used as part of their ongoing investigation. A motive for this incident is not clear at this time.

Anyone who may have further information about this shooting is urged to contact the Maryland State Police North East Barrack at 410-996-7800.

Anyone who may have further information about this shooting is asked to contact the Maryland State Police North East Barrack at 410-996-7800 in reference to case #19-MSP-036863.