James Skarda IV, Ricky Stem Obituary, Death: Victims in Baltimore County murder-suicide identified
James Skarda IV, Ricky Stem Obituary, Death – Baltimore County police have identified the two men involved in a fatal murder-suicide that occurred Monday in Dundalk. The incident claimed the lives of 35-year-old James Skarda IV and 37-year-old Ricky Stem, authorities said on Tuesday.
According to the Baltimore County Police Department, the deadly event unfolded on Monday afternoon, July 8. Officers were dispatched around 4:20 p.m. to the 8200 block of Bullneck Road following reports of a shooting in the area.
When police arrived at the scene, they found Skarda suffering from gunshot wounds to his upper body. Despite emergency efforts, Skarda was pronounced dead at the scene. He was confirmed to be the victim in what police have now classified as a murder-suicide.
Shortly after discovering Skarda, officers located Stem just a few blocks away, near the intersection of Dundalk Avenue and Liberty Parkway. Police said Stem was found with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, indicating that he had taken his own life following the initial shooting.
Emergency medical personnel transported Stem to a nearby hospital, but he died shortly after arriving due to the severity of his injuries.
Authorities have not provided a motive for the shooting and have not said whether the two men had a prior relationship or what may have led to the deadly encounter. No other individuals were injured during the incident, and police believe there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The Baltimore County Police Department has not released further details about the investigation, and it remains unclear if any witnesses were present or if surveillance footage captured any part of the events. Officers are likely continuing to review evidence and speak with anyone who may have knowledge of what occurred.
The shooting shocked residents of the usually quiet Dundalk neighborhood, particularly those living near Bullneck Road and the surrounding area. Community members expressed concern and sadness following the violent incident, especially given its fatal outcome.
Authorities included a map showing the locations where both the shooting and the suspect’s discovery took place, giving residents a better understanding of how close the two scenes were in proximity.
As the investigation continues, police have not announced whether a weapon was recovered or how many shots were fired. The events leading up to the murder-suicide remain under investigation.
No additional updates have been issued by law enforcement, but more information may be released in the coming days as the case develops and authorities piece together what led to the tragedy.
In the meantime, the families of both James Skarda IV and Ricky Stem are left grappling with an unexpected and devastating loss, as the Dundalk community mourns the shocking and violent end to two lives.
