Crime, Police/Fire

Police: Man killed while trying to force his way into ex-girlfriend’s Essex home

Homicide Crime ScenePolice are investigating a domestic disturbance that led to a man’s death on Sunday.

At just after 8:00 p.m., officers responded to the 100-block of Bennett Road in Essex (21221) for a report of a domestic disturbance.



Detectives have determined that 62-year-old Joseph William Principio, of the 7600-block of Holly Ridge Drive in Glen Burnie, went to his ex-girlfriend’s residence on Bennett Road, while she and her current boyfriend were inside the house.

Principio forced his way into the home when his ex-girlfriend answered the door.

Principio, armed with a gun, began to assault the current boyfriend once inside the house.

An altercation ensued, whereby the current boyfriend was able to hold Principio down until police arrived.

Joseph Principio was taken to Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.

Due to injuries to his upper body and arms, the current boyfriend was also taken to a local hospital for treatment. He is expected to survive his injuries.

The handgun was recovered by responding officers.

No shots were fired and no criminal charges have yet been filed.


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