March 29, 2024
Annapolis, US 42 F

Police make arrest in Odenton murder; offer tips on how to avoid being a victim of random violence

Antonio Eugene Diggs
Antonio Eugene Diggs

The Anne Arundel County Police have made an arrest in a January 13th homicide in Odenton. The County has seen two murders so far in 2017 and with this arrest, both have been closed.

Over the past several days, homicide detectives worked diligently and tirelessly in regards to the murder of Nathan Ford. As the investigation continued, several witnesses were interviewed in the following days to garner further information regarding Mr. Ford’s murder. Through the interviews homicide detectives learned that property belonging to Nathan Ford was missing from his person on the night he was shot and killed. Through other witnesses a suspect was identified in the shooting death and robbery of Mr. Ford. The suspect was positively identified as Antonio Eugene Diggs, a twenty-nine year old male from the 3700 block of Saint Victor Street, Baltimore, Maryland.

On Wednesday, January 18, 2017, Western District Detectives along with Homicide Detectives executed several search warrants. During the execution of the search warrants detectives recovered evidence linking Antonio Diggs to the murder of Nathan Ford. Homicide detectives obtained an arrest warrant charging the suspect, Antonio Eugene Diggs with the following crimes related to Mr. Ford’s murder: First Degree Murder, Second Degree Murder, Armed Robbery, First Degree Assault, Firearm Use in a Felony Violent Crime, and Theft less than $1,000.00. At approximately 8:30 p.m., members of the Anne Arundel County Police Fugitive Apprehension Team and Homeland Security and Intelligence Unit accompanied by the Baltimore City Police Department apprehended Antonio Diggs in the 1600 block of Church Street, Baltimore, Maryland. At that time he was taken into custody without incident.

The investigation revealed this was a random act of violence as this crime can be described as a citizen robbery/murder. The Anne Arundel County Police urges citizens to always remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times. Here are some safety tips to help prevent you from becoming the victim of a crime:

  • When out at night, try to have a friend walk with you. Try to park in well-lit areas with good visibility and close to walkways, stores, and people. 
  • Don’t display your cash or any other inviting targets such as cell phones, hand-held electronic games, or expensive jewelry and clothing.
  • If you think someone is following you, switch directions or cross the street. If the person continues to follow you, move quickly toward an open store or restaurant or a lighted house. Don’t be afraid to yell for help.
  • Make sure you have your key out as you approach your door. Always lock your car, even if it’s in your own driveway; never leave your motor running.
  • If someone tries to rob you, give up your property—don’t give up your life. If you are robbed or assaulted, report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions may help prevent someone else from becoming a victim.

As the investigation continues to unfold the Anne Arundel County Police Department urges anyone with information on the murder of Nathan Ford to contact the Anne Arundel County Homicide Unit at 410-222-4731.   If people with information wish to remain anonymous they can also contact the Anne Arundel County Police Tip Line 410-222-4700 or Metro Crime Stoppers.

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