BALTIMORE —
A cyclist was fatally stabbed Tuesday afternoon in a popular Baltimore City park.
City police say a man on a bicycle was stabbed multiple times at a trailhead in Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park. Police said details were still developing.
Police identified the victim Thursday as 62-year-old John Dierker. Towson University confirmed that Dierker was an adjunct faculty member in the music department and had been with the university since 2009.
The university released a statement saying, “We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of a member of our Towson University community. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues and students during this incredibly difficult time. The loss of one of our teachers is deeply felt and we are committed to supporting those who will be affected in the days to come.
WBAL-TV 11 News has learned that Dierker is a Baltimore native and deeply connected to the Maryland jazz scene.
Where is the investigation?
On Wednesday, BPD forensic officials searched the ground for evidence and placed a drone in the sky to get an aerial view of the crime scene.
A police crime squad has cordoned off much of the woods next to the Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park trailhead. Police say the investigation remains very active and ongoing.
Police are asking anyone with information to call homicide detectives at 410-396 2100 or Metro Crime Stoppers at 866-7LOCKUP.
Residents worried about safety
Some people who frequent the park say they are concerned about safety.
“I am deeply saddened to learn what happened in the park. It’s a shame. I use this park very regularly for exercise,” said Rendi, a neighbor. “You see bikers all the time, people jogging in the park. It’s horrible not being able to get out and enjoy nature and exercise.”
Police and a forensic team appeared very interested in an electric bike abandoned just over a kilometer from the crime scene. Authorities would only say that investigators are looking at everything that happens in the area to determine if it is related to the stabbing.
Nearby residents say they would like the state to take over the city-owned park in hopes it will increase safety measures. But they still plan to use the park.
“I’ll probably ride my bike there again. My daughter and I go there; we don’t go down there at night or when it’s dark, but we ride that trail all the time,” said resident Marc Brooks.
Pickett Slater Harrison, executive director of Friends of Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park (FOGFLP), released a statement saying:
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a cyclist’s life following a violent incident in the park. We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of the victim, as well as all members of our community affected by this tragedy.
“This incident reminds us once again of the need for a comprehensive safety plan and coordinated strategies to ensure Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park remains a safe and welcoming place for all.” Our park should be a place where residents and visitors can safely enjoy nature, recreation and community.
“FOGFLP remains committed to working alongside Baltimore City Parks and Recreation, Park Rangers, law enforcement, community organizations, and state and local leaders to develop a coordinated and comprehensive park safety strategy. This includes advocating for increased ranger resources, improved lighting and emergency communications infrastructure, safer and more welcoming facilities, and additional staff to support daily park operations.
“Ensuring a safe and welcoming park will require sustained collaboration, thoughtful planning and significant public investment. We believe our partners share this commitment, and we look forward to working together to identify solutions and secure the resources needed to make Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park safer for everyone.
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