Violent Murder Suspect Sought In Jessup Death: Police

JESSUP, MD — A man wanted for murder in the death of a Columbia man after a fight in Jessup may have fled Maryland, say Anne Arundel County Police. The victim who died ten days after the assault is Fredy Roberto Lopez-Martinez, 29, from the 5900 block of Stevens Forest Road in Columbia.

Authorities were first led to believe the fight happened June 17 at the victim's home, and Howard County Police handled the investigation. Once they learned the victim had been assaulted in the 2900 block of Jessup Road in Jessup, the Anne Arundel County Police Department took over the case.

Detectives say the victim was in the 2900 block of Jessup Road on the June 16 when he fought with Santos “Abel” Diaz-Lemus. Witnesses say Diaz-Lemus, 31, of Columbia, struck Lopez-Martinez in the upper body with an object. Lopez-Martinez's condition deteriorated and he died June 27 at the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Hospital.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner performed an autopsy and ruled the death of Lopez-Martinez a homicide. An arrest warrant was issued charging Diaz-Lemus with first- and second-degree murder, along with first- and second-degree assault.

The Anne Arundel County Fugitive Apprehension Team is seeking Diaz-Lemus, who is considered a violent and dangerous wanted subject. Police say the suspect may have fled the area. Anyone with information as to the location of Diaz-Lemus is asked to call 911.

Tips can be called into the Anne Arundel County Homicide Unit at 410-222-4731. To share tips and remain anonymous, contact the Anne Arundel County Police Tip Line at 410-222-4700 or Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866- 7LOCKUP.

»Photo of wanted murder suspect Santos “Abel” Diaz-Lemus courtesy of Anne Arundel County Police.