Recent Shooting Ruled a Homicide; Police Seek Information

Detectives from the Major Crimes Division are investigating a shooting that occurred in Silver Spring on March 3 that has now been ruled a homicide following the victim’s death. The victim has been identified as Derek James McBrayer, age 40, of Old Georgetown Road in Bethesda. The shooting occurred in the 1000 block of Quebec Terrace, and officers responded to a report of the incident at about 5:39 p.m.

Local Nonprofit Marks an Unexpected Anniversary

A local nonprofit is marking a one-year anniversary this month that they never expected to see. Community Connections was started in March 2020 by Silver Spring Cares, founded by Liz Brent, owner of Go Brent, a local real estate agency. The program’s purpose was to raise funds to help both food-insecure residents and local restaurants hit by the pandemic.

Baltimore Sun Deal Reaches Impasse

The Baltimore Sun’s acquisition by a nonprofit headed by Takoma Park businessman Stewart Bainum, Jr. has reached an impasse. Now, Bainum is reportedly considering acquiring all of The Baltimore Sun’s parent company, Tribune Publishing.

Council Unanimously Approves Regulation Easing COVID–19 Restrictions

The County Council, acting as the Board of Health, yesterday unanimously approved a regulation loosening many of the COVID–19 restrictions that were in place. During the discussion, council members made it clear they felt pressured to do so after Gov. Larry Hogan surprised officials with a March 9 announcement that lifted many statewide COVID-19 restrictions as of 5 p.m. Friday, March 12.