Maryland officials address death of man found hanging from tree in Prince George’s County

County officials addressed residents’ concerns Monday as investigators continued examining the death in the Maryland community.

Prince George’s County officials are addressing community concerns after a man was found dead Sunday morning near a business along Darcy Road in the Westphalia area of Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

According to WUSA9’s report, police responded to the scene after receiving a report of a man found hanging outside. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Prince George’s County Police Department launched a death investigation, with detectives speaking to witnesses and examining evidence. The medical examiner also responded and transported the man for an autopsy.

In a separate report, WTOP reported that investigators said the available evidence points to suicide. Police have said there is currently no evidence of foul play.

The circumstances nevertheless have been deeply upsetting to some residents, particularly because the deceased was Black and was found hanging from a tree.

Prince George’s County Councilmember Wala Blegay acknowledged the painful historical associations surrounding the incident.

“I also recognize the fear and pain this incident has caused, particularly given the painful history associated with the image of a Black man hanging from a tree,” Blegay said in a statement, according to the Washington Informer.

She added that “the community deserves a thorough investigation and transparency as the facts develop.”

County Executive Aisha Braveboy and Police Chief Nader reportedly joined a community call Monday to address residents’ questions and discuss resources available to people experiencing mental health challenges.

“I know this incident has been deeply upsetting for many residents who witnessed the scene or heard about it throughout the day,” Braveboy said.

Officials continue to characterize the case as an active investigation. While authorities have said the evidence currently points to suicide, the investigation and medical examiner’s work are ongoing.

The incident has left a community seeking both answers and reassurance as investigators work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the man’s death.