On a summer evening in Annapolis, Maryland, the sound of gunshots shattered the night, leaving a community in mourning and a family grappling with a devastating loss. On July 27, 2023, at approximately 10:19 p.m., Annapolis Police officers on foot patrol near Newtowne Drive were drawn by the sound of multiple gunshots coming from the area of Copeland Street.
Their investigation led them to the 1900 block of Copeland Street, where they discovered 16-year-old Robert Clark of Annapolis lying on the ground with critical injuries. Despite immediate efforts to save him, the young man was pronounced dead at the scene. Robert, who would have been a junior at Annapolis High School that fall, was described by his principal as friendly, shy, and quiet, with a love for basketball. He was well-liked by both students and staff.
In the same vicinity, officers found a second victim, a 17-year-old male, who had sustained a gunshot wound to his abdomen. He was airlifted to a shock trauma center in Baltimore in critical condition. The shooting sent shockwaves through the Annapolis community, prompting renewed calls to address gun violence and ensure the safety of its residents.
As of now, the investigation into Robert Clark's death is ongoing. No arrests have been made in connection with the shooting, and authorities have not publicly identified any suspects. The Annapolis Police Department continues to appeal to the public for any information that might lead to the apprehension of those responsible for this tragic act. They have urged anyone with information to contact their detectives.
