Executive Summary
- Maryland State Police arrested four suspects linked to a triple homicide and arson in Hagerstown.
- Charging documents allege the motive was a robbery targeting drugs, money, and guns.
- Victims were found fatally shot, and the residence was intentionally set on fire using an accelerant.
- Authorities anticipate further arrests as the investigation proceeds.
Maryland State Police have arrested four individuals in connection with a triple homicide and arson investigation in Western Maryland, following an alleged robbery plot that resulted in three fatalities. Authorities have indicated that additional arrests are anticipated as the investigation into the Hagerstown incident continues.
According to charging documents cited by WBAL-TV, the suspects allegedly targeted three individuals believed to be drug dealers with the intent to rob them of narcotics, firearms, and cash. Court papers indicate that the defendants rented a U-Haul vehicle to facilitate the crime. An unidentified witness reportedly provided law enforcement with details regarding the robbery plot, aiding investigators in identifying the suspects.
Investigators detailed a grim crime scene in court filings. Two of the victims, identified as Brittany Ray and Harold Flichman, were discovered fatally shot in the basement of the residence. Authorities stated that four bullet cartridges were recovered near the bodies. Furthermore, police allege that an accelerant was utilized to set the home on fire in two distinct locations: the front porch and a first-floor bedroom.
Court documents also note that investigators found a wallet belonging to Darnell Hawkins in the basement. Hawkins had reportedly been paroled on October 2 after serving a sentence for a previous murder conviction. Evidence obtained from a Ring camera allegedly shows one of the female victims attempting to grab the device while being dragged into the house by Hawkins, revealing his face to the camera.
Despite the alleged planning, charging documents do not indicate that the suspects successfully obtained the drugs, money, or guns they sought, though court papers allege the defendants were armed with handguns. The mother of one of the victims, speaking on condition of anonymity, described her daughter as an honors student with multiple degrees in business and criminology who leaves behind a 6-year-old son.
Investigative Outlook
As Maryland State Police continue to process evidence and pursue additional suspects, the case highlights the complex intersection of organized criminal plots and violent outcomes. The investigation remains active, with law enforcement focusing on identifying all accomplices involved in the execution of the robbery and subsequent arson. It is important to note that all individuals charged in connection with this case are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
