Robert Crooks
Fatal Maryland shooting death of Robert Crooks, 48, and Sarah Mitchell, 39
Robert Crooks
Fatal Maryland shooting death of Robert Crooks, 48, and Sarah Mitchell, 39
Police investigations suggest the tragic incident in a Maryland dwelling resulted from internal activities. Authorities confirmed it was a singular occurrence, presenting no current public safety concerns.
Identifications confirmed the two individuals discovered deceased were Michael Shores Jr., aged 54, and Jennifer Troch, aged 41, both residents of the same street address. On the morning of the incident, emergency personnel were alerted to smoke and flames originating from the second level of a two-story residence. Fire officials reported finding both victims unconscious on the upper floor, already in cardiac arrest upon their rescue.
Post-mortem examinations conducted on August 4th at a hospital facility in Allentown concluded both fatalities were caused by head injuries inflicted by firearms. The precise circumstances surrounding their deaths are currently being reviewed by investigators.
Emergency services received reports concerning smoke and fire rising from the upper floors around 6 a.m. Fire crews had to breach entry to the structure. They managed to rescue at least one animal companion and transported both victims to a medical center, where they were pronounced deceased later that morning.
The fire response was escalated, requiring assistance from multiple local and state agencies. A firefighter unfortunately sustained an injury during the rescue operation.
Michael Shores Jr., originally from Baltimore and a 1988 graduate of Kennard-Dale High School, was recognized for his professional background. He was employed at Beef Baron’s, a business he operated within a Baltimore market, representing a family business tradition. His family members include his offspring, Ray and Abigail Shores; his parents, Michael Shores Sr. and Joanna Shores; his mother, Katharine A. Shores; and his sibling, Michelle S. Wilkinson and her partner Douglas Wilkinson. Tributes describe him as an individual who valued time spent in nature and family adventures. Arrangements are being handled by a funeral service provider.
Ongoing collaborative inquiries involving law enforcement and fire investigation specialists are examining the incident for potential arson-related factors.
