A dispute over mechanical services escalated into a fatal shooting on June 25, 2024, leaving 52-year-old Romero Strother Cook dead. The incident began in Clarke County and ended near the Sandy’s mobile home community off Fairfax Pike in Frederick County. Investigators say a brief vehicle pursuit ended in a face-to-face confrontation during which shots were fired.

Cook, a Black man from Clarke County, ran Cook Tree Service, had recently earned an HVAC certification, and was an active member of Second Guildfield Baptist Church. He is remembered by family and community as friendly and generous with an infectious smile.

Authorities identified 42-year-old Terrance Lee Morris of Woodbridge as the primary suspect; deputies arrested him on June 30, 2024, in Spotsylvania County. He faces a second-degree murder charge and is being held without bond while the investigation continues. Anyone who was traveling on Route 340 or Fairfax Pike the evening of June 25 and saw anything is asked to come forward.