HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION UPDATE – June 25, 2025
Cambridge, Maryland – CPD Identifies, Charges Suspect in Fatal Shooting of Steven Lee Dennis
The Cambridge Police Department (CPD) has provided a detailed update on the homicide investigation stemming from a fatal shooting that occurred on the evening of June 25, 2025. The tragic incident claimed the life of Steven Lee Dennis, a 45-year-old resident of Cambridge, Maryland. The case, which sent shockwaves throughout the community, has resulted in the arrest and formal charging of 18-year-old Damarion Tyron Sampson, also of Cambridge.
Initial Incident – June 25, 2025
At approximately 8:37 p.m., CPD officers responded to reports of a shooting near the West Side Bypass and Route 343. Upon arrival, officers located Steven Dennis lying on the roadway with a single gunshot wound to the upper chest. A brave civilian and an off-duty police officer were already administering CPR and lifesaving aid.
CPD officers immediately continued these efforts until Dorchester County EMS arrived. Tragically, Mr. Dennis was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Witness accounts and early investigative efforts revealed a passenger car fleeing the area via Route 343 shortly after the shooting, prompting a wide-reaching investigation by the Cambridge Police Department Criminal Investigation Division (CPD CID).
Investigation and Arrest of Suspect
Through a thorough and exhaustive investigation, CPD detectives were able to identify a subject of interest:
Damarion Tyron Sampson, 18, of Cambridge, Maryland.
Detectives secured a Search and Seizure Warrant for a residence in the 100 block of Richardson Drive, believed to be associated with Sampson.
On June 27, 2025, at approximately 12:28 p.m., members of the Cambridge Police Department Special Tactical Response Team (STRT) and the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) located and arrested Sampson without incident near Johnson Street and Oak Street. At the time of his apprehension, Sampson was taken into custody on an unrelated arrest warrant for a recent armed robbery.
Later that day, CPD detectives executed the search warrant at the Richardson Drive residence. During the search, officers located:
-
A handgun, believed to be connected to the shooting.
-
The vehicle seen fleeing the crime scene on June 25.
Sampson was initially held at the Dorchester County Detention Center without bond.
Formal Homicide Charges Filed – July 9, 2025
On July 9, 2025, detectives from CPD formally charged Sampson with the murder of Steven Lee Dennis. He remains in custody at the Dorchester County Detention Center, held without bond.
Sampson now faces the following charges:
-
Murder – First Degree
-
Murder – Second Degree
-
Assault – First Degree
-
Firearm Use in a Felony Violent Crime
-
Assault – Second Degree
-
Reckless Endangerment
-
Reckless Endangerment from a Vehicle
-
Handgun in a Vehicle
-
Loaded Handgun in a Vehicle
-
Handgun on Person
-
Loaded Handgun on Person
-
Possession of a Firearm by a Minor
A Community in Mourning
The murder of Steven Lee Dennis is a horrifying and senseless act of violence that has left a deep scar on the Cambridge community. Known as a devoted family man and a hardworking member of the community, Steven’s life was cut tragically short. As friends and loved ones mourn his loss, the Cambridge Police Department remains committed to securing justice and bringing peace to those affected by this horrific event.
Ongoing Investigation and Call for Public Assistance
The investigation into this homicide is active and ongoing. The Cambridge Police Department urges anyone with information—no matter how minor it may seem—to come forward.
Anyone with tips is encouraged to contact the CPD Criminal Investigation Division directly at 410-228-3333.
Acknowledgements
The Cambridge Police Department extends sincere gratitude to all the partnering agencies who assisted in this complex and high-priority case:
-
Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office (DSO) Criminal Investigation Division and K9 Unit
-
Maryland State Police (MSP)
-
Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP)
-
Dorchester County Emergency Medical Services
-
Dorchester County State’s Attorney’s Office
-
Maryland State Police Crime Lab
Their combined efforts, coordination, and dedication to public safety were instrumental in bringing this case to its current stage.
In Memory of Steven Lee Dennis
As this case moves forward through the legal system, the community remains united in grief and in remembrance of Steven Lee Dennis. His life mattered, and his memory will be honored through continued calls for justice, peace, and a safer Cambridge for all.
If you see something, say something. Together, we can stand against violence and support one another in healing and justice.