Kevin Michael Shepherd was a 38-year-old barber remembered for his big heart, broad laugh, loud singing, and nicknames including Shep, Sheppy, and Two Step Shep. Family members said he struggled at times but would help others and had a magnetic way with children.

On the morning of Friday, January 26, 2024, police in Hagerstown, Maryland, responded to shots fired in the 1200 block of Marshall Street. Officers found Kevin deceased in the driver’s seat of his car, which had crashed into a small tree in an alleyway. He had an apparent gunshot wound and the vehicle was still in reverse, prompting investigators to conclude he had been attacked while inside and was trying to flee. Police described the shooting as targeted, not random.

Investigators arrested three people who knew Kevin: his girlfriend, Stephanie Nicolle Paulino, 35; Jenaro JT James Torres, 26; and Emens E Lourdy Rho, 40. In February 2024 all three were charged with first- and second-degree murder, assault, and firearm violations. In March 2024 the Washington County State’s Attorney’s Office dismissed the murder charges as insufficiently supported, though police said the events were complicated and the investigation continued.

If anyone knew Kevin, his movements that morning, or has information about the attack, please share what is known with investigators.