Clinton Man Released After Waldorf Steakhouse Fight Leads To Gun, Assault Charges

WALDORF, Md. — A Clinton man was charged with assault and firearm-related offenses after a fight that began inside a Waldorf restaurant moved outside and police later recovered a loaded handgun from his waistband, according to charging documents.

Shiloh John-Daniel Bell, 24, of Clinton, was charged with first-degree assault, wearing a handgun while under the influence, use of a firearm in a felony or violent crime, use of an assault weapon or magazine, second-degree assault, disorderly conduct and intoxicated public disturbance following the June 19, 2026, incident.

According to charging documents, officers responded around 10:51 p.m. to the All American Steakhouse on St. Patrick’s Drive in Waldorf for a reported assault in progress.

Witnesses told police that three men had been arguing inside the restaurant before the dispute turned physical and moved outside. The group reportedly left the restaurant and walked toward the area of the Chick-fil-A on Crain Highway.

One victim had a visible cut to his lower lip and blood on his face and hands, according to charging documents. He told police he had been punched and that another person had presented a firearm.

Officers later located three men walking near Giant in Waldorf. One of the men had blood on his arms, and because of the reported firearm involvement, the group was detained for identification, according to charging documents.

While Bell was being detained, officers reported finding a loaded Ruger handgun in his waistband. Charging documents state the handgun had one round in the chamber and a loaded magazine containing 15 rounds of ammunition.

Bell also had a Maryland identification card, according to charging documents. Police reported that a search did not show a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit.

Officers returned to the steakhouse and spoke with two victims. One victim reported that while he was trying to break up the argument, Bell allegedly lifted his shirt, showed a firearm tucked into his waistband, placed his hand on the gun and made a threat.

A second victim told police he saw a group fighting in the parking lot and went to help break it up. He also reported seeing Bell lift his shirt and reveal a firearm, according to charging documents.

Bell allegedly told police he had been at the restaurant with two other people when an argument began. Charging documents state Bell reported that an unknown person approached and told them to leave, and that he began walking away after more words were exchanged.

Bell allegedly said the person put his hand in his pocket or waistband, making Bell fear for his life, but denied presenting a firearm.

While speaking with Bell, officers reported smelling alcohol on his breath and observing bloodshot, glassy eyes and slurred speech. Charging documents state Bell admitted he knew it was illegal to carry a firearm while intoxicated.

Court records show Bell was initially held without bond June 20 and released on recognizance following a bail review hearing June 22 before Judge Kenneth A. Talley in Charles County District Court.

A preliminary hearing is set for July 17 in Charles County District Court.

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