ANNAPOLIS, Md. (August 18, 2025) – A Prince George’s County man is behind bars after police say he fired multiple shots from his vehicle while traveling along Interstate 97 in Anne Arundel County Sunday afternoon.
Suspect Identified
The suspect, Jose Gregario Cruz-Mendoza, 45, of Lanham, Maryland, faces a lengthy list of charges, including:
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Possession of a loaded handgun on person
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Possession of a loaded handgun in a vehicle
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Reckless endangerment
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Driving while impaired
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Additional firearm and vehicle-related offenses
Cruz-Mendoza is being held without bail at the Jennifer Road Detention Center in Anne Arundel County.
Multiple Reports of Gunfire
At around 4:30 p.m. on August 17, the Maryland State Police Annapolis Barrack received several 911 calls reporting gunfire from a white Ford Excursion with Maryland tags. Witnesses said shots were fired along MD Route 97 and later on Route 50 in Annapolis.
Troopers, with assistance from the Anne Arundel County Police Department and the Anne Arundel County Sheriff’s Office, quickly located the SUV on westbound Route 50 at I-97. Officers initiated a traffic stop and found Cruz-Mendoza as the sole occupant of the vehicle.
Tense Traffic Stop
According to police, troopers repeatedly ordered Cruz-Mendoza to show his hands. Instead, officers observed him attempting to load what appeared to be a firearm. He was taken into custody without further incident and transported to the MSP Annapolis Barrack for processing.
Once in custody, troopers noted that Cruz-Mendoza displayed signs of impairment, adding to the charges filed against him.
Weapons and Ammunition Seized
A search of the vehicle uncovered a significant cache of weapons and ammunition:
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A Highpoint 9mm handgun with an altered serial number
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Approximately 75 spent shell casings
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247 live rounds of ammunition
Despite the large volume of gunfire reported, authorities confirmed that no injuries occurred during the incident.
Community Safety Concerns
The arrest comes amid rising concerns about roadway safety following reports of reckless driving and violence on Maryland highways. While no bystanders were harmed, investigators stressed the seriousness of the incident, noting the potential for tragedy when firearms are discharged on busy interstates.
Ongoing Investigation
Maryland State Police are continuing their investigation to determine Cruz-Mendoza’s motive and whether additional charges may follow. Authorities are also working to trace the origin of the handgun, given its altered serial number.
Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact the Maryland State Police Annapolis Barrack at 410-267-5800.
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