'Targeted attack': Man wanted in Md. judge's killing after Hagerstown driveway shooting

HAGERSTOWN, Md. (7News) — Authorities are searching for a suspect wanted in connection with the "targeted attack" of a Washington County, Maryland judge who was shot in his Hagerstown driveway Thursday night, according to the Washington County Sheriff's Office (WCSO).

At around 8 p.m., circuit court Judge Andrew Wilkinson, 52, was found with gunshot wounds outside his home, located in the 19100 block of Olde Waterford Road.

Wilkinson was taken to Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown where he died of his injuries.Wilkinson's wife and son were home at the time, WCSO Sheriff Brian Albert said.

The WCSO gave an update at a press conference on Friday at 11 a.m.Watch below:

The WCSO released photos of the suspect, identified as 49-year-old Pedro Argote, and described as 5'7" tall and 130 lbs with black hair and brown eyes. Argote may be driving a silver 2009 Mercedes GL450 with Maryland registration plate 4EH0408.

On Friday evening, the U.S. Marshals Service announced they are offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to Argote's arrest.

Anyone with information about Argote’s location is asked not to approach him, but to immediately notify law enforcement.

Albert said Argote was due in court for a divorce-related hearing Thursday but was not present. Another hearing was scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 31.

Albert stated that Argote does not have any prior criminal records and that he legally owned a handgun. It's unclear what weapon was used in the shooting.

In a document appearing to be Wilkinson's final court order, the judge issued a decision in a divorce believed to involve Argote, which included a protective order and gave full child custody to one of the guardians.

7News learned on Thursday that Maryland State Police (MSP) troopers were in the process of being dispatched to protect other judges.

During the press conference, Albert said there is no threat to other judges in the county or state.

"We're a small community here, close-knit, so we pull together when something like this happens," Albert said. "We've had more resources than we needed, so that was a good thing."

Wilkinson served as associate judge of the Washington County Circuit Court, 4th Judicial Circuit, since Jan. 10, 2020, according to a Maryland government website. The seat is appointed by the governor and/or elected by voters to 15-year terms, with Wilkinson's position set to expire in 2035.

He also worked as the assistant Washington County attorney from 2006 to 2012.

Wilkinson was a former youth soccer coach, assistant baseball coach and a member of St. Ann Catholic Church in Hagerstown.

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The Maryland Judiciary issued the below statement:

"The Maryland Judiciary mourns the tragic death of Judge Andrew Wilkinson. As we grieve his loss, we ask that you keep the Wilkinson family in your prayers and please respect their privacy. The Maryland Judiciary is actively engaging with law enforcement to assist in resolving this matter and to ensure the safety of our judges, staff, and visitors, which remains our top priority."

U.S. Senator Ben Cardin shared the following statement:

“I offer my condolences to Judge Wilkinson’s family, friends and all those touched by his public service. No one should have to endure the anguish of having a loved one ripped away in such a manner. There is no excuse for this kind of violence, especially against an officer of the court. The rule of law is what makes our society work. It may not be perfect, but individuals like Judge Wilkinson worked to make it better and more just every day. His passion clearly was for serving his local community and for this, Judge Wilkinson will be sorely missed.”

Maryland Congressman David Trone shared the following message on "X":

"Shocked and heartbroken to hear that Judge Andrew Wilkinson was murdered last night at his home in Hagerstown. This violence is horrifying to see in our community. Our thoughts are with his family during this unimaginable tragedy and with law enforcement investigating this crime."

Former Maryland State Delegate Neil Parrott wrote on "X":

"Horrible news in Washington County tonight. It appears that Judge Andrew Wilkinson was shot multiple times and has passed away. Police are actively searching for the murderer. Please pray for our police and for Judge Wilkinson's family at this time."

Officials said the Washington County Circuit Court is operating normally despite the shooting.

The investigation is ongoing.