72-Year-Old Man Dead, Another Injured In Salisbury Home Invasion
SALISBURY, Md. (WJZ) -- Maryland State Police are looking for answers after a 72-year-old man is found dead inside his home on the Eastern Shore.
The disturbing discovery was made in Salisbury, where a second man was also found with serious injuries.
Rochelle Ritchie has more.
The crime has stunned the small city of Salisbury. Neighbors describe the murder victim as a good guy with a big heart.
Crime scene tape surrounds the home of Donald Mariner in the 27000-block of Pemberton Drive. The 72-year-old was found murdered after an apparent home invasion.
"The victim in this case, who was still living at this point, is the one who called 911 to get police there for the reported home invasion," said Elena Russo, Maryland State Police.
A woman who has lived down the street from Mariner for 20 years is left stunned.
"During the night my son said he heard a gunshot, he was outside smoking, and my other son said a gunshot woke him up," said Rose Jenkins, Salisbury.
Maryland State Police say they are still looking for a suspect who may have stolen Mariner's black Ford F-150 truck. The truck was found abandoned approximately two miles from the location of the crime.
"If anybody saw this particular vehicle, please call police," Russo said.
Police say another man was found inside the home. He told police he had been assaulted with a blunt object. He survived and was taken to the hospital.
Residents say Mariner was a good man and a good neighbor and say they'll have to be more careful.
"Everybody has to make sure you have your doors locked and be a little bit more safe, because in this day and time, you never know," said Jenkins.
Crime Solvers of the Lower Eastern Shore is offering a $2,000 reward for any tips leading to an arrest. Callers can remain anonymous.
The name of the second victim has not been released. Police believe the two victims were roommates.
The suspect is described as an African-American male, who may have been wearing a black-hooded sweatshirt and jeans at the time of the crime.
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