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Autistic Man Killed by Police After Mental Health Call
30 Mar
Summary
- Police shot and killed an autistic man during a mental health call.
- The man threatened to harm himself before police arrived.
- Family described the death as 'senseless and callous'.
On March 1, 2026, Howard County police fatally shot Alexander LaMorie, a 25-year-old autistic man, during a mental health call he initiated. The Maryland Attorney General's Office released body camera footage capturing the incident.
Officers were dispatched to Patuxent Commons in Columbia after LaMorie made suicidal statements during a phone call. Upon arrival, they searched the building before encountering LaMorie outside, armed with a knife. Bodycam video shows LaMorie advancing towards the officers despite repeated commands to drop the weapon, expressing a desire to end his pain.
The involved officers included Joel Rodriguez, Cody Bostic, and PFC Joseph Riebau. LaMorie's family has strongly condemned his death, calling it "senseless and callous" and questioning the circumstances. They described LaMorie as a kind, loving individual and an advocate for autism awareness.
In response, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball and Police Chief Gregory Der have committed to enhancing police responses and training. Ball stated that nearly 80% of officers have specialized intervention training. The county plans to foster closer partnerships and explore additional non-lethal options, like tasers, for police.
