Man Breaking Into Vehicles Shot Along With 2 Others Trying To Stop Him: Police

FAIRMOUNT HEIGHTS, MD — Detectives are investigating a fatal shooting that happened this past weekend in Fairmount Heights.

On May 18 around 4 a.m., Prince George's police officers were called to the 5700 block of J Street. Thy found a man and a woman, both with gunshot wounds not considered to be life-threatening. Officers also found 30-year-old Edward Coates III of Temple Hills with multiple injuries including a gunshot wound. He died a short time later at the hospital.

The preliminary investigation indicates that Coates was in the neighborhood attempting to break into cars. He and the man who was shot had encountered each other outside. Coates, who was armed with a gun, chased the man around a house where they got into a physical struggle over the weapon. People in the home came outside to intervene. During the struggle, multiple shots were fired and the two victims were struck. One of the people eventually gained control of the weapon and shot Coates, according to police.

So far, no charges have yet to be filed. Anyone with information about this case who would like to speak to a detective can call 301-516-2512.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers online at www.pgcrimesolvers.com, the “P3 Tips” mobile app (search “P3 Tips” in the Apple Store or Google Play to download the app onto your mobile device), or call 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). You can remain anonymous. Please refer to case number 25-0026461.

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