DUNDALK, MD — A Baltimore County police officer has been named in the shooting death of 43-year-old Glenn Pettie, which occurred during a mental health crisis response on Sunday, May 18. The tragic event has raised questions about how law enforcement handles such sensitive calls.
Officer Michael Brady Placed on Administrative Leave
The Maryland Office of the Attorney General’s Independent Investigations Division (IID) revealed that Officer Michael Brady, a four-year veteran of the Baltimore County Police Department, fired the fatal shot. Following protocol, Brady has been placed on paid administrative leave while the investigation continues.
This incident marks the fifth police-involved shooting in Baltimore County this year, intensifying community concerns and calls for review.
What Happened During the Mental Health Crisis Call?
Authorities say two officers were dispatched to a home on the 8200 block of North Boundary Road in Dundalk after a report of a mental health episode involving Pettie. The officers approached the scene cautiously — one stayed near the front door, while the other moved to the alley behind the house.
According to the investigation, Pettie allegedly exchanged gunfire with the officer in the alley. He was shot and transported to the hospital, where he later died.
Police also reported that Pettie had a loaded handgun with him at the time.
Neighbors Share Their Perspective
Residents in the Dundalk neighborhood expressed shock and sadness over the shooting, noting they were familiar with Pettie’s struggles. Several neighbors recalled that Pettie’s mother had called 911 seeking help to de-escalate the crisis.
One neighbor described the officers’ approach, saying, “They knew he had mental health issues. One officer knocked on the door, while the other stayed in his car. Then the officer said over the radio he was going to walk around back.”
Some neighbors believe the situation could have been handled differently.
Pettie’s Last Words and Community Reaction
Before his death, Pettie posted on social media expressing his pain and frustration:
“I’m tired of no sleep… this town has gobbled me up and showed no love for me and mine.”
Friends responded with messages of sympathy and regret:
“Glenn was a nice guy.”
“You clearly needed help and you were asking for it… I’m sorry.”
One neighbor shared a personal connection with Pettie, recalling how they often talked and how Pettie tried to stay calm during his episodes:
“He would say, ‘You are my Libra friend,’ and always smiled. I was always able to calm him down and talk to him. They could have done it a different way.”
The Ongoing Debate Over Police and Mental Health Calls
This shooting has reignited the ongoing conversation about how police handle mental health emergencies. Critics argue for more specialized response teams trained in crisis intervention to avoid violent outcomes.
Baltimore County officials have not yet released a full report on the incident, but community members and advocacy groups are calling for transparency and reform.
What Comes Next
The Independent Investigations Division continues to examine the details of the case. Officer Brady remains on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
Meanwhile, Pettie’s family, friends, and neighbors continue to mourn his loss and advocate for changes that might prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Remembering Glenn Pettie
Beyond the headlines and investigations, Glenn Pettie was a man known to those around him as kind and struggling with serious challenges. His story is a reminder of the complex issues surrounding mental health and law enforcement.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, help is available. Contact local resources or national helplines for support.
“This article was written by Mathew Owen. AI tools were used lightly for grammar and formatting, but the ideas, words, and edits are all mine.”
