The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office has launched a formal investigation into an officer-involved shooting that occurred on Sunday morning, October 5, 2025, in Martinsburg, West Virginia, after a series of chaotic and violent events involving a man armed with a hatchet.
The suspect, identified as 29-year-old David Edward Browne, was pronounced dead at Berkeley Medical Center following the incident. According to authorities, the situation began unfolding shortly before 8 a.m. when deputies were called to investigate a missing person report.
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Family members told investigators that Browne, who suffered from schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, had recently gone off his prescribed medication and was exhibiting paranoid behavior. They also noted that he had discarded his identification and electronic devices before leaving home, raising concerns for his safety.
Moments later, around 8:00 a.m., dispatchers received another 911 call reporting that a naked man wielding a hatchet had attacked a woman in her driveway, striking her vehicle multiple times and shattering its windows before fleeing.
At approximately 8:16 a.m., deputies were dispatched to Jenny Wren Drive, where Browne had reportedly returned to his residence and begun destroying property while still armed with the hatchet. When deputies arrived, they encountered Browne’s mother, who managed to escape the home to safety.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Browne then emerged from a side door and lunged at Corporal McBee with the weapon. Deputies opened fire in response, striking Browne. The officers immediately secured the weapon and provided life-saving aid until paramedics arrived on the scene.
Despite efforts by emergency personnel, Browne was later pronounced deceased at the hospital.
In keeping with standard procedure, all deputies involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office stated that the incident is being reviewed thoroughly to determine the full circumstances leading to the fatal confrontation.
The Sheriff’s Office also expressed condolences to the Browne family and to all those affected by the tragic events, emphasizing the department’s commitment to transparency and accountability as the investigation continues.