Crime & Safety

Police: Annapolis Man Beat His Mother with Hammer

The woman was hospitalized and remains in serious condition, according to police.

A Cape St. Claire man was arrested Tuesday for allegedly beating his mother with a hammer, police said.

Robert Benscoter, 33, was charged with attempted second-degree murder after he allegedly struck his 61-year-old mother with a hammer in the head and torso after an argument, according to a police release.

Anne Arundel County Police responded to the 1300 block of Hazel Nut Court in Cape St. Claire at 8:08 p.m. Tuesday for a report of family violence. 

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"The victim’s son apparently used a hammer to strike her repeatedly in the head and torso. In fear for her life, the victim fled her home and ran to a nearby neighbor, where she called the police," according to a release.

When police arrived, Benscoter had fled the home and led police on an extensive search involving K-9 and air units. He was reportedly found in a wooded area near Commanders Way.

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Police said Benscoter was arrested without incident and charged with second-degree murder, first- and second-degree assault and reckless endangerment. The victim was transported to the Maryland Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore, where she is currently in serious but stable condition.


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