In Baltimore County

Howard County man, 24, dies in car crash on I-83

PARKTON -- A Howard County man died yesterday morning when his car crashed on Interstate 83 near Middletown Road in Baltimore County, Maryland State Police said.

Thomas Matthew Winter, 24, of the 6300 block of Greenfield Road in Elkridge was driving a 1993 Plymouth Sundance sedan south on I-83 when the car drifted into the concrete center divider, then abruptly turned to the right, went off the road and hit an embankment, according to police.

Winter's car was discovered by a passing motorist about 5:20 a.m. and he was declared dead of numerous injuries at the scene, police said. Police said they were not sure when the accident occurred.

In Dorchester County

Deputy shoots man wielding club, toy gun

HURLOCK -- A Dorchester County sheriff's deputy shot and critically injured a 34-year-old Hurlock man yesterday after the man threatened him with a club and a realistic-looking toy gun, authorities said.

About 7 a.m. James M. Farrow of the 4300 block of Russell Road called the sheriff's department, saying only, "Send the police," before hanging up, said Maryland State Police, who are investigating the shooting.

Deputy 1st Class Robert A. Walker arrived shortly after 7 a.m. and found Farrow on the front steps of his trailer holding a club, police said.

Walker took cover behind his car, drew his weapon, and told Farrow to drop the club. Farrow began to walk toward Walker, getting within 15 yards, when he drew a plastic gun from his waistband, police said.

Walker shot Farrow more than once in the upper body before Farrow collapsed, police said. He was taken to Memorial Hospital at Easton, where he was listed in critical but stable condition last night.