LEONARDTOWN, Md. - The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office just reported that Deputy Mark A. Porter, who on Saturday shot a motorcyclist, has been placed on administrative leave pending the completion of an investigation. The
motorcyclist reportedly pulled a knife and attacked the officer and a bystander during a traffic stop near Leonardtown.
Police also report that the motorcyclist, Steven Todd Coryell, 40, is still listed in stable condition at Washington Hospital Center.
According to police, on Saturday, March 24 at approximately 7:29 p.m., Deputy Sheriff Porter attempted to conduct a vehicle stop in the Leonardtown area. The vehicle, a 2005 Harley Davidson, initially refused to stop and a short pursuit ensued. The motorcycle eventually pulled over to the side of the road.
Police suspected the rider, Coryell, was under the influence of an unknown
substance. As roadside tests were being explained, Coryell allegedly produced a
knife and threatened the Deputy. During the course of the confrontation, the
Deputy fired one round from his agency-issued weapon. The man was hit, but the
wound only temporarily stopped him, say police. As Coryell attempted to flee on foot, additional officers were able to place him in custody and administer medical treatment.