3 Shot, 2 Stabbed During Cinco De Mayo Event In Laurel

LAUREL, MD — Three people were shot outside Longhorn Steakhouse Tuesday in Laurel during a Cinco de Mayo celebration held in the Laurel shopping center parking lot while two people were stabbed outside Amigos Mexican Grill around the same time, police report.

All five victims were taken to area hospitals for treatment and are expected to survive, police said.

Shon Juan Cook Jr., 26, of Howard County, has been arrested in what Laurel Police say was a domestic-related stabbing that happened around 10 p.m. at Amigos Mexican Grill in the Centre at Laurel.

The stabbings are unrelated to the shootings, police say. Investigators previously said that a fight broke out outside the restaurants and shots were fired in front of the Longhorn Steakhouse, one of the many restaurants in the shopping center, which is in the 13600 block of Baltimore Avenue.

The shooting was captured on video and posted on social media, according to reports. The video shows several men arguing and punching each other in front of the steakhouse, which is next door to Amigos Mexican Grill. The. A burst of gunfire can be heard on that video, according to reports.

Anyone who witnessed either incident or has information is asked to contact Laurel Police at 301‑498‑0092 or anonymously at LPDtips@laurel.md.us.

Laurel's mayor, Keith R. Sydnor, released a statement expressing concern for the victims and everyone impacted by the shooting and stabbing incidents. He also thanked the Laurel and Prince George's County police departments for their quick response and coordinated efforts.

"As the investigation continues today, I remain confident that those responsible will be held accountable. Additionally, our city’s Code Enforcement Office is reviewing our policies and will respond accordingly as part of the investigation. The safety and security of our residents, businesses and visitors remain our top priority, and we take very seriously our operational protocols as events are being planned and as part of post-event evaluations," Sydnor said.

"While incidents such as these are concerning, they do not reflect the spirit of our community. Laurel remains a strong and resilient city, and we will continue working together to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all," he added.