On October 5, 2024, at approximately 1:50 a.m., officers from the Frederick Police Department were patrolling the area of E Church Street and Market Street when they heard a firearm discharge.
Officers quickly responded to the intersection of N Market Street and E Church Street, where they located two victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Both victims were transported to local hospitals and are currently reported to be in stable condition.
Chief of Police Jason Lando praised the officers’ response, stating, “After reviewing the body camera footage, I was truly impressed by the quick and decisive actions of our officers. While patrolling the downtown business district, they heard gunfire and immediately began pursuing the suspect on foot. Thanks to their actions, the suspect was apprehended without further incident, and a firearm was recovered. At the same time, other officers rendered critical first aid to the victims until EMS arrived. Their immediate intervention undoubtedly saved lives and prevented what could have been a far worse outcome.”
Based on the initial investigation, it is believed that an altercation occurred between the victims and the suspect, identified as Darryl Lee Cooke Jr., 29, of Frederick, MD. Due to the patrol officers’ proximity to the scene, Cooke was quickly apprehended, and a firearm was recovered. He was transported to Frederick Health Hospital for evaluation and has since been released. Cooke has been charged with two counts of attempted murder.
Detectives are actively investigating the incident. Anyone with information or video surveillance footage from the area is urged to contact Detective McPeak at AMcPeak@frederickmdpolice.org or call 301-600-2102. Anonymous tips can be provided by calling 301-600-TIPS (8477), emailing fpdcrimetip@frederickmdpolice.org, or texting 240-674-TIPS (8477).