Bethesda Shooting – Active Shooter Incident Prompts Massive Police Response and Road Closures in Bethesda
Bethesda, MD – April 18, 2025 — A heavy law enforcement presence was deployed to the Bethesda area on Saturday following reports of an active shooter and a barricaded individual near Old Georgetown Road. The incident triggered a rapid response from over a dozen law enforcement agencies and led to widespread road closures and public safety alerts.
Montgomery County Police confirmed that officers responded to the scene near Old Georgetown Road and Beech Avenue just after 4:30 p.m. Radio transmissions and social media updates revealed that the suspect had barricaded themselves inside a structure in the area, prompting tactical and crisis response teams to arrive on site.
Authorities initially reported the situation as an active shooter and urged members of the public to avoid the area. Police later clarified that while the individual remains barricaded, there is no ongoing threat to the wider community. Nevertheless, residents were advised to stay indoors as the situation remains active.
Multiple roads in the vicinity have been shut down, including:
- Old Georgetown Road at Rockledge Drive
- Old Georgetown Road at Ryland Drive
- Beech Avenue at Edgley Road
Police warned of significant traffic congestion and advised motorists and pedestrians to steer clear of the area. “Expect other road closures and delays,” Montgomery County Police wrote on social media. “Please seek alternate routes and remain alert to emergency responders.”
A large perimeter has been established, with visible presence from Montgomery County Police, state troopers, and federal agencies. Emergency medical services and crisis negotiation units are also on standby.
No injuries have been reported at this time, and police have not yet released any information about the identity of the suspect or their motive. Authorities are continuing negotiations with the individual in an effort to bring the situation to a peaceful resolution.
Updates will be provided by Montgomery County officials as more details become available. In the meantime, residents are urged to remain indoors and follow guidance from local authorities.
