Aaron Michael Wearins, a 34-year-old male, tragically lost his life in a violent encounter that unfolded in the quiet community of Dundalk, Maryland. On the evening of August 27, 2018, he was in the company of 26-year-old Gabrielle Marie Paugh at her home on Wise Avenue when the scene turned deadly. A man, later identified as 37-year-old Tavon Powell, entered the residence and opened fire, striking both Wearins and Paugh.
First responders arrived to a grim discovery, finding both victims
suffering from gunshot wounds. They were rushed to area hospitals for emergency medical treatment. Paugh succumbed to her injuries that same night, while Wearins fought for his life in critical condition. Despite the efforts of medical staff, Aaron Michael Wearins passed away from his injuries the following day, on August 28, 2018. The incident, which began as a violent intrusion, had quickly escalated into a double homicide.
As the Dundalk community grappled with the shocking violence, law enforcement launched an immediate and intensive investigation. Through their initial inquiries, detectives identified Tavon Powell as the primary suspect in the double shooting. It was revealed that Powell had a prior relationship with Gabrielle Paugh, and neighbors suggested that the tragic events may have been fueled by a jealous rage upon discovering her new relationship with Wearins. With a suspect identified, a manhunt for Tavon Powell was initiated, and he was soon charged with two counts of first-degree murder.
The search for Powell extended beyond the borders of Maryland, culminating in his apprehension in Kenner, Louisiana, a suburb of New Orleans. The U.S. Marshals, acting on information provided by Baltimore County homicide detectives, located and arrested Powell. Following his capture, arrangements were made for his extradition back to Maryland to face the charges brought against him. Baltimore County Police confirmed their intent to send detectives to Louisiana to further their investigation and understand the circumstances of his flight from justice. After his return to Maryland, Tavon Powell was tried for the murders of Aaron Michael Wearins and Gabrielle Marie Paugh. He was subsequently convicted of both murders and sentenced for his crimes.
