In Maryland, a man who fatally shot and killed a firefighter while injuring his partner in the process has been released from custody without charges. The firefighters responded to a call made by the brother of the perpetrator thinking that he was in a critical condition in his home.
According to CNN, after being questioned and put to custody, the man who shot two Maryland firefighters was released on Saturday. Prince George's County Police spokesman Tyler Hunter said "Yes, he was released from custody and as far as why charges have not been filed, call the state's attorney office." The firefighters who responded to a call were John Ulmschneider, 37, and Kevin Swain, a 19-year old volunteer firefighter. Ulmschneider was shot in the chest and declared dead while Swain happened to survive with critical conditions.
Fox 5 reported that the firefighters responded to a 7:30 pm call saying that the man's brother called 911 due to being unable to reach him and thinking that a medical emergency happened. The firefighters with the man's brother then went to barrage through the front door but the homeowner opened fire. He was able to hit the firefighters while also injuring his brother with a shoulder wound. The man was said to have woken up with the thought that someone is trying to get into his house and initially focused on thinking that they might be burglars or intruders.
Following the shots, Swain went to go in a surgery at Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore after he sustained 4 shots as written by ABC News. Now, Swain remains in serious but stable condition. Sykesville Fire Department released a statement saying that they've talked with Swain who confirmed he's okay.
The man, whose identity was not disclosed, was taken into custody and after being questioned he was released by the authorities. No charges were formally filed since the shooter cannot be upheld but a thorough investigation will follow.
