November 19th, 2019 by WCBC Radio

On Tuesday the Allegany County Sheriff's Office responded to a private residence on Church Hill Road in Midland for a report of a subject shooting at an occupied house. When Deputies arrived they learned that the suspect had fled the area on foot. The suspect was identified as 21 year old Matthew Wesley Martin, of Grantsville.

A search for Martin was conducted in the immediate vicinity with the assistance of the Maryland State Police and MSP helicopter Trooper 5. Martin's unoccupied vehicle was located a short distance away, but he was not located at that time.

As the search for Martin continued, Deputies were able to make contact with Martin via cell phone. After conversing with him for a short period of time, Deputies were able to convince Martin to surrender himself. He was taken into custody on Old Legislative Road, approximately 1 mile from the original scene, after walking out of the woods.

Investigators with the Allegany County Combined Criminal Investigation Unit (C3I) responded to the scene to assist in the investigation. Through interviews of the witnesses, Investigators learned that the incident stemmed from an argument between family members which had started the night before. This morning the victims were startled by the sound of a firearm discharging outside the residence. One of the victims went outside and observed Martin fleeing the scene on foot.

Another of the victims drove a short distance away and located Martin and his vehicle on Rt. 936. There was a confrontation at that time, and Martin fired one shot at the victim's vehicle, striking the vehicle while the victim was inside. Martin then fled on foot.

None of the victims were injured.

When Martin was taken into custody a short time later, a 20 gauge shotgun and several rounds were recovered. In addition, Investigators obtained additional evidence after searching the suspect's vehicle and after reviewing conversations he was having with the victims on his cell phone.

Martin is being charged with 1st Degree Assault and Reckless Endangerment. He is currently being processed and will be awaiting an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner.

The investigation is continuing by C3I and the Sheriff's Office.