LOCAL OCEAN CITY MAN ARRESTED AND CHARGED IN FATAL PEDESTRIAN HIT-AND-RUN CRASH

Ocean City, MD - Ocean City Police Department has charged a local man, James John Johnson, in connection to a fatal hit-and-run accident initially posted on Eastern Shore Undercover's Social Media pages and that occurred on December 16, 2024.

The fatal collision occurred shortly before 5 p.m. in a parking lot near a strip mall on 94^th Street in Ocean City, Maryland. Responding to reports of a serious motor vehicle collision involving a pedestrian, both the Ocean City Police Department and Emergency Medical Services arrived on the scene. The 59-year-old male victim was immediately transported to Atlantic General Hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries as a result of the crash.

Following surveillance footage and several witness statements, officers were led to an SUV parked at a residence near 77^th Street in Ocean City, Maryland. The SUV was identified as being involved in the incident. Officers subsequently arrested the vehicle owner, who they identified as James John Johnson, who was believed to have been operating the vehicle during the incident.

Johnson has since been charged with first-degree murder, second-degree murder, first-degree assault, second-degree assault, and possession of a controlled dangerous substance. Johnson has been seen by a Maryland District Court Commissioner and has since been ordered to be held without bond.

Interim Chief Michael Colbert praised the quick response and efficient teamwork display by the officers involved in the case. "This case highlights the importance of our shared mission to protect and serve the community," he said.

The victim's identification is currently withheld, pending notification of next of kin.

The Ocean City Police Department has urged anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward and contact DFC Amy Gutowski at agutowski@oceancitymd.gov. Anonymous tips can be left on the department's Tip Line at 410-520-5136 or by emailing at crimetips@oceancitymd.gov.