On January 18, 2026, at approximately 10:42 a.m., Maryland State Police announced the arrest of two additional individuals in connection with a triple homicide and house fire that occurred in Washington County in November of the previous year. Authorities stated that the new arrests represent a continued expansion of the investigation as detectives work to determine the full scope of involvement surrounding the violent incident.
According to investigators, 40-year-old Lanea George of Owings Mills and 43-year-old David Chapple of Baltimore have been charged for allegedly assisting the primary suspects after the killings took place. Both individuals face charges of accessory after the fact to first-degree murder. In addition to that charge, George has also been charged with obstruction of justice. Law enforcement officials confirmed that both suspects are currently being held without bail at county detention facilities while the case proceeds.
The investigation centers on a deadly house fire that was reported shortly after 5:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 18, at a residence located along National Pike in the Clear Spring area of Washington County. Emergency crews initially responded to the scene following reports of a structure fire. However, as state police and fire investigators began examining the property, they quickly discovered evidence indicating the fire was not accidental.
Troopers reported finding multiple indicators of foul play at the scene. These included the presence of fire accelerants and injuries observed on the victims that were inconsistent with trauma typically caused by a fire. As the investigation progressed, authorities determined that the blaze had been deliberately set in an apparent attempt to conceal the homicides.
Three individuals were found deceased inside the home. They were later identified as Brittany Ray, Harold Flichman, and Brianna Weishaar. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner conducted autopsies and concluded that all three victims died as a result of gunshot wounds, confirming that the fire occurred after the fatal shootings.
Maryland State Police have emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing. Detectives continue to follow leads, analyze evidence, and conduct interviews to identify anyone else who may have played a role before or after the killings. Authorities have indicated that additional arrests are possible as the case develops.
Officials have not released further details regarding the nature of the assistance allegedly provided by George and Chapple, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. State police continue to urge anyone with information related to the case to come forward as they work to bring all responsible parties to justice.
