By: Victor D. Quitee
HARPER, Maryland County — An unidentified man, believed to be in his early 30’s, is in police custody following a violent theft that left several people injured in the Bishop Hill Community (Zone 3) of Harper.
The Incident
The crime spree reportedly began early Sunday morning, April 19, 2026. At approximately 4:35 a.m., the suspect hired a motorbike rider, Daniel Nah, to transport him from the 18th Area to the “Take Note Block” in Bishop Hill. Upon arrival, the suspect allegedly fled without paying under the pretense of retrieving money.
Roughly an hour later, at 5:49 a.m., the suspect allegedly broke into a residence in Zone 3 by climbing through an opening above the back door. Once inside, he snatched a smartphone from 15-year-old Wede Stemm, who was awake working on a school assignment.
The Struggle
A violent confrontation ensued when the victim’s mother, Teta, intervened to stop the thief. The suspect reportedly produced a knife and attacked Teta and her two children, Wedy and Courage, inflicting serious injuries.
A neighbor, Sunday Dixson, heard the cries for help and rushed to the scene but was also attacked and wounded as the suspect fled. All victims were subsequently rushed to JJ Dossen Hospital for emergency medical treatment.
The Arrest
The suspect’s run ended thanks to the persistence of the defrauded motorbike rider. While transporting another passenger to the TU Community later that morning, Daniel Nah spotted the man who had stiffed him earlier.
Nah contacted the police and, following their instructions, kept the suspect under surveillance until officers arrived to make the arrest.
Conflicting Identifications
The suspect is currently being held at the local police station. Following their medical treatment, the victims arrived at the station to participate in a police lineup. The identification process yielded mixed results:
- Wedy, Courage, and Daniel Nah positively identified the suspect.
- Teta and Sunday Dixson identified a different individual who was being held for an unrelated offense.
Current Status
Police sources indicate that the suspect could not be interrogated immediately due to heavy intoxication. The victims have been advised to continue their medical recovery and return to the station today, Tuesday, April 21, as the investigation continues.