Members of both the Bladensburg Fire Department and Police Department are mourning a local hero.
Police say Officer Brian Johnson was driving eastbound on Route 100 in Pasadena, Md., Saturday morning when he crossed the median and struck a car traveling westbound. He was taken to Baltimore Washington Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. Police say the other driver was treated and released at the scene.
The medical examiner's office ruled the cause of death a gunshot wound to the chest and the manner of death a suicide.
Johnson was a nine-year veteran of the Bladensburg Police Department. He was also a volunteer firefighter for Bladensburg for 15 years.
The Bladensburg Volunteer Fire Department released the following statement:
It is with the deepest of regrets, through heavy hearts and many tears our family has lost a great fireman and Bladensburg Police Dept. has lost a great Police Officer/Detective. We shall forever remember the great times and the many things that you have taught to so many of our firefighters over the years.
Our deepest condolences to Keri and the children, Mom and Dad, Brother and all the rest of the family, extended fire department family and our Brothers in Blue who protect us. Bladensburg Police and police family.
May God shed his light on you as a shining star, watching over all of us
is a huge challenge but one we know you'll fill with tremendous
confidence. Till we meet again.....
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Bladensburg Police Chief Charles Owens also spoke on Johnson’s death.
“Today, our family lost a cherished member,” he said. “Private First Class Brian Johnson was a dedicated public servant to the Bladensburg community. He will be missed by all.”
