Death Investigation in College Park Ruled a Homicide

Prince George’s County Police Department Homicide Unit detectives are investigating a homicide after human remains were located at a park in College Park. The victim is 14-year-old Jefferson Amaya-Ayala of Washington, DC.

On November 3, 2025, while assisting the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and FBI Cross Border Taskforce with a joint missing persons investigation, what appeared to be possible human remains were located during a search of Indian Creek Stream Valley Park. The remains were sent to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME). The OCME has now ruled the case a homicide.

The remains were located in the jurisdiction of Maryland-National Capital Park Police Prince George’s County Division. The Prince George’s County Police Department investigates all homicides that occur in their jurisdiction.

Detectives are working to identify a suspect(s) and a motive.

Anyone with information on this case who would like to speak to a Homicide Unit detective may 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 25-0061413.

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Driver Dies of Injuries from Motor Vehicle Collision in July

The Prince George’s County Police Department’s Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Unit is investigating a now fatal crash that occurred in July of 2025 in Temple Hills. The deceased driver is 36-year-old Joseph McGainey of Brandywine. He died of his injuries on November 24, 2025.

On July 8, 2025, at approximately 11:25 am, officers responded to a two-vehicle collision in the area of St. Barnabas Road and Powhanka Place.

The preliminary investigation indicates McGainey was attempting to enter the intersection of St. Barnabas Road and Powhanka Place when his vehicle was struck by a vehicle traveling southbound on St. Barnabas Road. McGainey was taken to a hospital for life-threatening injuries. The second driver suffered injuries not considered life-threatening.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Unit at 301-731-4422.

Anyone with information may also 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 (25-0037287).

If you would prefer to translate this release into another language, please find the translation window on the right side of this webpage. Please select your preferred language from the available list.

PGPD Arrests Suspect for MGM National Harbor Shooting

 

Benjamin Williams

The Prince George’s County Police Department’s Homicide Unit identified and charged a man in connection with Wednesday’s fatal shooting at the MGM National Harbor. The suspect is 22-year-old Benjamin Williams of Fort Washington. He is charged with the murder of 23-year-old Darnell Hawkins Jr. of Washington, DC.

On December 3, 2025, at approximately 11:55 am, officers responded to a shooting at the MGM National Harbor. Officers located Hawkins on the ground suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Hawkins died at the scene.

Through various investigative techniques, detectives identified Williams as the suspect and obtained an arrest warrant.

On Thursday morning, the PGPD’s Fugitive Unit located and arrested Williams. He is charged with first- and second-degree murder and additional charges. He is currently in custody at the Department of Corrections on a no-bond status. 

Detectives believe they knew each other, but are still investigating the motive.

Anyone with information on this case who would like to speak to a Homicide Unit detective may 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 25-0067214.

If you would prefer to translate this release into another language, please find the translation window on the right side of this webpage. Please select your preferred language from the available list.  

PGPD Mourns Passing of Veteran Officer

Sergeant Mullendore

The Prince George’s County Police Department is saddened to announce the passing of Sergeant Joseph Mullendore #2966 who died last week following a hard-fought illness.

 

Sergeant Mullendore first joined the agency in 2006. During his nearly 20 years with the PGPD, he was assigned to Oxon Hill - District IV, the former Regional Investigation Division, the Training and Education Division and his most recent assignment in District VI – Beltsville. Prior to joining the department, he served as a police officer with the University of Maryland Police Department.

 

Sergeant Mullendore leaves behind his loving wife and their beloved son. In addition to his dedication to family and duty, Sgt. Mullendore loved 18^th century history and music of all kinds. He enjoyed playing the guitar and banjo.

 

Please keep his family, fellow officers and all who knew and loved him in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.