July 17, 2023
FEDERALSBURG, MD:
The accused is identified as Leo Cook III, 26, of Federalsburg, Maryland. Cook is charged with second-degree attempted murder, two counts of first-degree assault, second-degree assault, and reckless endangerment. He was transported to the Caroline County Detention Center to be seen by a Court Commissioner.
The victim is identified as Eric Steele, 36, of Federalsburg, Maryland. Steele was transported by Maryland State Police Aviation Command to the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore for treatment of his injuries.
Shortly after 12:30 a.m. this morning, troopers from the Maryland State Police Easton Barrack responded to Liberty Road in Federalsburg for the report of trespassing. Upon responding to the call, troopers were advised that it was a reported stabbing. Police and emergency medical services personnel located the victim, later identified as Steele, inside the residence suffering from apparent stab wounds.
According to a preliminary investigation, Cook and Steele were living in the same residence at the time the incident occurred. The on-scene investigation indicated Cook’s involvement in the stabbing. Cook was located in the backyard and arrested without incident.
Crime scene technicians from the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division responded to process the scene for evidence. Officers from the Federalsburg Police Department and personnel from the Caroline County Department of Emergency Services also responded for assistance. Investigators from the Maryland State Police Criminal Enforcement Division Eastern Region are leading the investigation.
The case remains under investigation.