Police Make Quick Arrest in Homicide Investigation on East Avenue

Prince George’s County, Maryland… The Prince George’s County Police Department’s Homicide Unit has arrested William Roger Fitts, 15, of the 2900 block of East Avenue in connection with the homicide of 92 year old Thelma Elaine Steele.

William Fitts was located today in the 2900 block of East Avenue and was transported back to the Criminal Investigation Division for questioning. William Roger Fitts waived his constitutional rights, and confessed to the murder of Thelma Elaine Steele.

On August 15, 2011, at approximately 8:23 p.m., patrol officers responded to the 2900 block of East Avenue after receiving a call from a concerned family member to check on the welfare of the victim. Upon arrival, officers found Thelma Steele inside the residence suffering from stab wounds and trauma to her upper body. She was pronounced deceased on the scene.

Detectives identified Fitts as a suspect in the case through evidence recovered during the investigation. It was discovered that Fitts had beaten and stabbed the victim during a robbery at her residence.

Anyone with additional information about this case is asked to call the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Homicide Unit at (301) 772-4925. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411 TIPS (8477) or text “PGPD plus your message” to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone or go to http://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/police/ and submit a tip online.