Bodycam Footage Shows Police Shootout in Dundalk, Maryland

 

Baltimore County prosecutors have determined that officers were justified in using deadly force during a police-involved shooting that resulted in the death of an armed robbery suspect and serious injuries to both a police officer and a bystander. The suspect, identified as 35-year-old Blaine Robert Erb, who had no fixed address, was fatally shot in the area of the 3400 block of Dundalk Avenue following a violent confrontation with law enforcementThe incident began when Erb allegedly committed an armed robbery in a shopping center parking lot. According to police reports, he approached two individuals and robbed them at gunpoint, threatening their lives before fleeing the scene. Witnesses quickly contacted authorities and provided descriptions of the suspect and his direction of travel.Erb then boarded a Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) bus in an apparent effort to evade capture. Officers from the Baltimore County Police Department were able to track the suspect’s movements and located the bus he had boarded. They initiated a stop in an effort to apprehend the suspect safely and prevent further danger to the public.

As officers approached the bus and ordered passengers to exit for their safety, Erb emerged from the vehicle brandishing a firearm. What followed was a brief but intense exchange of gunfire between the suspect and police. During the shootout, one officer was struck and seriously wounded. Additionally, a nearby civilian—who had no involvement in the incident—was also caught in the crossfire and sustained serious injuries.

The confrontation ended when officers returned fire, fatally wounding Erb. He was pronounced dead at the scene. A handgun was recovered in his possession, confirming he had been armed throughout the incident. Investigators later determined it to be the same weapon used during the earlier armed robbery.

Emergency responders quickly rendered aid to the injured officer and the wounded bystander. Both were transported to local hospitals, where they received treatment for their injuries. Authorities have since reported that while the injuries were serious, both individuals are expected to recover.

In the days following the shooting, the Baltimore County State’s Attorney’s Office conducted a thorough review of the incident. That investigation included interviews with witnesses, body-worn camera footage from responding officers, forensic evidence, and a reconstruction of the sequence of events. After completing their review, prosecutors concluded that the officers involved acted in accordance with the law and used necessary and appropriate force in response to an immediate and life-threatening danger.The case has drawn attention to the increasing risks police officers face during routine calls, particularly those involving armed suspects in populated areas. The presence of bystanders during the exchange only added to the complexity and danger of the situation, and law enforcement leaders have praised the officers’ actions in attempting to minimize harm while confronting an armed and dangerous individual.

The Baltimore County Police Department has expressed its gratitude for the support of the community and the rapid medical assistance provided to the injured. Officials also offered their thoughts and well wishes to the officer and the civilian recovering from their wounds.

The department has reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability, noting that officer-involved shootings are among the most scrutinized events in modern policing. Officials emphasized that the use of force is always a last resort but is sometimes necessary to protect lives.This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and dangerous nature of police work. While the loss of life is always regrettable, authorities stress that the actions taken by the officers prevented what could have been an even greater tragedy. The investigation has now been closed, with no charges to be filed against the officers involved.