RCPD Makes Arrest in Welsh Park Shooting

On October 26, 2024, just after 12:30 p.m. this afternoon, the Rockville City Police Department responded to Welsh Park at 101 Welsh Park Drive for a report of gunshots. RCPD units arrived on the scene and determined that multiple gunshots had been discharged in the parking lot. Witnesses observed a black Honda, Civic fleeing the scene. RCPD detectives launched a criminal investigation into the incident and worked around the clock to determine the circumstances.

On October 27, 2024, RCPD detectives located and recovered the black, Honda Civic in Frederick County. Through the investigation, detectives determined that Kenneth Oates, 38, of Gaithersburg was responsible for attempting to shoot two victims in Welsh Park. There were no injuries sustained in the shooting.

This morning Oates was arrested in Washington, D.C. on a warrant obtained by RCPD detectives. Oates is charged with two (2) counts of attempted first degree murder, two (2) counts of attempted second degree murder, two (2) counts of first degree assault, two (2) counts of second degree assault, two (2) counts of reckless endangerment, two (2) counts of violation of a protective order, the use of a firearm in a crime of violence and possessing a regulated firearm while prohibited. Oates is currently being held in Washington, D.C. pending an extradition hearing.

Although Oates has been arrested, the criminal investigation is remains active and ongoing. The RCPD thanks our partners at the Frederick City Police Department, Montgomery County Police Department's ROPE Unit and the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department for their assistance and continued cooperation with this investigation.

"The urgency and tenacity of our detectives in this case was unparalleled. They spent countless hours working to quickly bring closure to the victims and residents of our community. This investigation was our top prior from the onset," said Chief Victor Brito.