Hancock MD. Police Department

03/30/2026

MEDIA RELEASE:

On Saturday, February 21, 2026, officers from the Hancock Police Department and deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office responded to Whispering Wind Road in Hancock, Washington County, Maryland, for a reported shooting involving an adult male victim.

The victim, identified as Brian Keith Lavoie Jr., was transported to Meritus Medical Center for treatment, where he later succumbed to his injuries. An extensive investigation conducted by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Unit determined that the individual who discharged the firearm was a juvenile, and that the juvenile acted in defense of self and others during the incident.

The case was presented to the Washington County State’s Attorney’s Office, which reviewed the facts and circumstances and concurred with that determination.

On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, the case was further presented to a Washington County Grand Jury, which also determined that the juvenile’s actions were justified and declined to return an indictment.

Due to the involvement of a juvenile and in order to protect the privacy rights of those involved, no additional information will be released at this time.

03/22/2026

Request for Resident Assistance – North Pennsylvania Ave Area

Residents with Ring Doorbell cameras or any exterior security cameras in the North Pennsylvania Ave area are asked to please review your footage from 8:30 PM to 9:00 PM last night.

We are seeking any video that may help identify individuals involved in throwing rocks onto I‑70 during that time.

If you have footage or any information that may assist, please contact [email protected].

Your cooperation is greatly appreciated as we work to keep our community safe.

03/19/2026

Dog found in Widmeyer Park this evening.
He has a black leash and a tag with “courage” on it.
Humane Society is en route to ensure the dog is safe for the night
If anyone knows this dog please contact Officer Walls.

02/23/2026

On Saturday, February 21, 2026, at approximately 9:35 p.m., Deputies with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and Officers from the Hancock Police Department responded to the 400 block of Whispering Winds Road in Hancock, Maryland, for a reported shooting.

Upon arrival, deputies located a 43-year-old male, later identified as Brian Keith Lavoie Jr., suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Life-saving measures were initiated, and Mr. Lavoie was transported to Meritus Medical Center for treatment. Despite medical efforts, he was later pronounced deceased.

Preliminary investigation indicates this is an isolated incident and there is no known threat to the public at this time.

The investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Andrew Koontz at 240-313-2186.

Additional information will be released at a later time.

02/13/2026

Hancock PD is looking for information on a bicycle theft and would like to speak with the individual in this video. Please call 800-792-8501 with any information you may have.

12/01/2025

Important information about the impending storm.

10/09/2025

Press release from PSP.

Continue to pray!

10/01/2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 1, 2025

RE: Hancock Police Department Statement Regarding Report of Potential Kidnapping

On September 30, 2025, the Hancock Police Department received a report concerning a potential kidnapping incident within the town limits. Officers responded promptly and conducted a thorough investigation into the matter.

Following the investigation, no evidence of a crime was found, and no charges have been filed. At this time, there is no indication of any threat to children or the general public in Hancock.

The alleged incident has been circulating on social media, and while we understand the concern this may cause, we want to reassure residents that there is no verified threat. We encourage the public to rely on official sources for accurate information and updates.

As always, the Hancock Police Department urges parents and guardians to remain vigilant in watching over their children and taking steps to ensure their safety. Community awareness and proactive involvement are key to maintaining a safe environment for all.

Residents are urged to call 911 for emergencies and 1-800-792-8501 for non-emergency concerns.
We remain committed to the safety and well-being of our residents and appreciate the continued cooperation of the community.

Chief Allan Thomas
Hancock Police Department
Phone: 301-678-5622
Email: [email protected]

08/27/2025

Please help us in congratulating our ten newest police officers! They were sworn in yesterday by Mayor McIntire. A formal graduation ceremony will take place on Friday at Hagerstown Community College.

They spent seven months at the Washington County Police Academy and will now be partnered with a field training officer for approximately three months. After a lot of hard work and dedication, they are ready to serve the community. Congratulations to each of you and we wish you a safe, successful career!

Do you have what it takes to become Hagerstown’s Finest? Learn more about our salary and benefits. Link to website in comments.