Tragic Shooting at Centreville Party Claims Life of 19-Year-Old, Injures Two Others
QUEEN ANNE’S COUNTY, Md. — A night of celebration turned into a devastating tragedy early Sunday morning after a shooting broke out at a large party south of Centreville, leaving one young man dead and two others injured. The Queen Anne’s County Sheriff’s Office is now conducting an intensive investigation into the deadly incident and is urging community members to come forward with any information.
The Incident
The shooting occurred shortly after 1 a.m. on Sunday, during what officials described as a large party being held at a residence on Centreville Road. According to authorities, a significant number of people were in attendance when the sound of multiple gunshots disrupted the gathering.
Responding deputies from the Queen Anne’s County Sheriff’s Office arrived on scene and found Christopher Parsley, a 19-year-old Centreville resident, suffering from gunshot wounds. Tragically, Parsley was pronounced dead at the scene, despite the immediate efforts of first responders.
Two other victims, whose names have not been released, were also shot during the incident. Both individuals were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Their current conditions have not been publicly disclosed.
Investigation Underway
Authorities believe that the suspect—or multiple suspects—were present at the party before the shooting occurred. Investigators are working to determine what led up to the violence, including whether the victims were targeted or if the shooting was the result of a confrontation that escalated.
Detectives spent hours at the crime scene Sunday morning, collecting evidence, speaking with witnesses, and attempting to piece together a timeline of events. However, as of now, no arrests have been made and no suspects have been publicly identified.
Community Shocked and Grieving
The death of Christopher Parsley has sent shockwaves through the Centreville community, where he was known as a promising young man with a bright future ahead. Friends and family have expressed their sorrow and disbelief on social media, sharing memories, photos, and heartfelt tributes.
“This is absolutely heartbreaking,” one family friend wrote. “Chris was so full of life. He didn’t deserve this. We need justice.”
A candlelight vigil in his memory is being planned by friends and community members who want to honor his life and support his grieving family.
Call for Public Assistance
The Queen Anne’s County Sheriff’s Office is now urging anyone with information about the shooting or the individuals involved to come forward. They’ve set up multiple ways for the public to report tips, and anonymous submissions are welcome.
Those with information are encouraged to contact the Queen Anne’s County Office of the Sheriff at Sheriff-Info@qac.org or call the Anonymous Tip Line at 410-758-6666.
Sheriff Gary Hofmann released a statement Sunday afternoon saying, “This act of violence has shaken our community, and we will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice. We need your help to identify the person or persons involved in this senseless tragedy.”
A Plea for Peace
The incident adds to growing concerns over youth violence and gun-related deaths in small towns and rural communities—places once believed to be far removed from such acts of senseless violence. Local officials and clergy are calling for peace, urging young people to seek conflict resolution without turning to firearms.
“Our hearts are broken,” said a local pastor during a brief gathering at the scene. “Let’s come together as a community, not just in grief, but in action—to make sure this doesn’t happen again.”
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues and the community grapples with grief, authorities remain focused on bringing the perpetrator or perpetrators to justice. More updates are expected in the coming days, and police are confident that with the help of witnesses, justice can be served.
In the meantime, the Queen Anne’s County community is left mourning a life lost too soon, praying for the recovery of the injured, and hoping for answers in the wake of a heartbreaking act of violence.