Annapolis Community Grieves After Fatal Shooting in Robinwood; Suspect Identified
ANNAPOLIS, MD — A city still reeling from recent violence has been shaken once again by the fatal shooting of a man late Wednesday night in the Robinwood community. Authorities have identified the victim as 37-year-old Gregory Antonio Wells, a lifelong Annapolis resident remembered by loved ones as kind-hearted, humorous, and deeply devoted to his family.
The incident occurred just before 11 p.m. in the 1300 block of Tyler Avenue. According to the Annapolis Police Department, stationary patrol units in the area heard gunfire and responded immediately. When officers arrived on the scene, they found Wells suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency responders from the Annapolis Fire Department arrived shortly thereafter and began performing life-saving measures. Despite their efforts, Wells was pronounced dead after being transported to Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center.
“This is yet another heartbreaking loss for our city,” said Annapolis Police Chief Edward Jackson. “We extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Wells’ family and are doing everything possible to bring justice in this case.”
Suspect Identified and Warrant Issued
In a swift turn of events, police named 34-year-old William Delonte Hairston as the primary suspect in the shooting. An arrest warrant has been issued, and authorities are urging Hairston to turn himself in. Law enforcement agencies throughout the region have been notified, and a manhunt is currently underway.
While details surrounding the motive remain under investigation, police sources suggest the shooting was not random. Detectives believe Wells and Hairston may have known each other, though they have not yet released specifics on the nature of their relationship.
“We are asking anyone with information about Mr. Hairston’s whereabouts, or who may have seen or heard anything suspicious in the area at the time of the shooting, to come forward,” said Detective Sergeant Maria Jenkins. “This act of violence has devastated a family and a community, and we won’t rest until justice is served.”
A Life Cut Short
Family and friends of Gregory Wells are grappling with the reality of his sudden death. Known affectionately as “Tony” by those closest to him, Wells was a father, a friend, and a hard worker with deep ties to the community. Those who knew him described him as generous and funny, the type of person who could light up a room with a joke or lend a hand without hesitation.
“He was always looking out for people,” said his cousin, Shaniece Wells. “He made mistakes like anybody, but he was trying. He was growing. And he didn’t deserve to go out like this.”
Wells was also deeply committed to his children, often seen walking them to school or cheering them on from the sidelines of weekend sports games. Friends shared memories online of backyard cookouts, family reunions, and heartfelt conversations that showcased his softer side.
Violence in Annapolis
The shooting marks yet another act of gun violence in Annapolis, a city that has seen an uptick in violent incidents over the past year. Local leaders are calling for urgent community-based solutions, as well as stronger partnerships between law enforcement, outreach organizations, and neighborhoods most affected.
Mayor Gavin Buckley released a statement Thursday morning:
“The loss of Gregory Wells is another reminder that too many families are being torn apart by senseless violence. We must work together—government, residents, and community leaders—to address the root causes and stop the bloodshed.”
Efforts are currently underway to increase police presence in the Robinwood area, as well as to deploy trauma response teams to support residents processing the latest tragedy.
Seeking Justice and Healing
As the search for William Hairston continues, police are urging anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts to contact the Annapolis Police Department at 410-268-4141 or through the Metro Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at 1-866-7LOCKUP.
Meanwhile, Wells’ family is preparing for what will be an emotional and difficult farewell. A vigil is planned for this weekend in the Robinwood community, where candles will be lit and prayers shared in his memory.
“He didn’t deserve to be left in the street like that,” said longtime friend Maurice Hill. “Greg was more than just a headline. He was our brother. And we’re going to make sure people remember his name for how he lived, not just how he died.”
If you or someone you know has information regarding this case, please contact the Annapolis Police Department at (410) 268-4141 or submit a tip anonymously via Metro Crime Stoppers.