Law Enforcement Officers responded to a call for a subject not breathing in the Scotland area of St. Mary’s County. Upon arrival Andrew "Joe" Donnick was found on the front lawn of his home. Resuscitation efforts were being performed and continued until Mr. Donnick was pronounced deceased at St. Mary’s Hospital.
The investigation was continued by BCI and it was discovered that there was a physical altercation over a right of way for boat ramp access. Mr. Donnick had been involved in a long standing dispute with several other neighbors in the community over a launching point that ran past his property. The dispute into the right to access the ramp had been adjudicated in Court and the ruling was in favor of the other property owners in the community. Several pylons were placed on the embankment causing the ramp to be blocked. One of the neighbors attempted to access the ramp and a verbal altercation ensued. Mr. Donnick was shoved to the ground during the physical confrontation. He got to his feet and the verbal dispute continued, causing the Suspect to leave the area. Several moments later Mr. Donnick collapsed and never regained consciousness.
Preliminary autopsy reports show no signs of trauma to and his death was not a result of the physical altercation, however it is believed heart illness was. The investigation continues and charges, if any, will come after a full autopsy report is completed and the State’s Attorney is conferred with.