On Sunday, January 01, 2012 at 0317 hours, Troopers from the Leonardtown Barrack responded to Friendlys Sports Bar located at 23490 Budds Creek Road, Clements, St. Mary’s County, MD for a large crowd/disturbance. Troopers reported there were approximately 150 people at the establishment, which has a reputation for large crowds, fights, disorderly conduct, etc. While Troopers were on scene, several fights erupted, causing Troopers to request more assistance. Troopers from the La Plata Barrack & Prince Frederick Barrack responded to assist with crowd control at that location and other locations in St. Mary’s County that the bar patrons are known to frequent after they leave the establishment. Deputies from St. Mary’s County, Charles County & Calvert County also responded to assist. Maryland State Police Helicopter Trooper 7 was requested and responded to the area as well.
While the Troopers were attempting to control the crowd, one shot was fired within the crowd by an unknown suspect. One shot struck the adult victim in the leg, causing a minor, non-life threatening injury. No Troopers or Deputies were injured and no one else reported being shot. The victim was immediately pulled by Troopers to a safe location and a crime scene was established. Troopers located a loaded weapon in the parking lot of the establishment and it is believed to be the weapon used to commit the crime. The weapon was processed and forwarded to the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division for further analysis.
Troopers interviewed the victim, who wasn’t forthcoming with information and processed the crime scene. The victim refused medical treatment on scene and was released.
Anyone with information pertaining to this crime is urged to contact Senior Trooper Malaspina at the Leonardtown Barrack, the lead investigator in this case. Investigation continues.
