1 person dead in shooting at Maryland casino; police searching for shooter

December 3, 2025 Authorities confirmed that a man was fatally shot Wednesday in the food court of the MGM National Harbor hotel and casino in Maryland, and they are actively searching for the shooter.

Prince George's County Police Chief George Nader stated that officers arrived shortly before noon after receiving reports of the shooting. The victim, a man in his early 20s, was later pronounced dead at the scene.

"This was not a random act," Chief Nader said. "The shooter specifically targeted this individual. It appears the suspect sought out the victim, pursued him, and carried out the shooting directly in the food court."

Authorities explained that the victim was alone and ordering food when the gunman approached and opened fire. Surveillance footage has captured the suspect, though police are not yet releasing a description, noting they will do so only if tracking him proves difficult. Officials believe the assailant escaped by car.

The incident was confined to the food court, with the rest of the casino and hotel, located in Oxon Hill near Washington, D.C., remaining open. Nearby schools were temporarily placed on lockdown as a precaution while authorities confirmed the suspect had not fled on foot.

"Crimes like this are extremely uncommon at National Harbor," Nader added. "Violent crime at MGM and the surrounding area has dropped about 32% this year. We are confident this case will be solved."

Author: Sophia Brooks