On January 20, 2026, at approximately 2:10 p.m., authorities released information regarding an ongoing investigation into a shooting that took place Monday night in Gaithersburg. The incident occurred outside a McDonald’s restaurant and resulted in one individual being hospitalized with injuries that were described as non-life-threatening.
According to law enforcement officials, officers from the Gaithersburg Police Department, along with members of the Montgomery County Police Department, were dispatched to the scene at around 7:08 p.m. The response followed reports of gunfire at the McDonald’s located in the 400 block of North Frederick Avenue. Upon arrival, officers secured the area and began assessing the situation.
At the scene, police located an adult male who was suffering from what appeared to be a gunshot wound to his leg. Emergency medical personnel were called to provide assistance, and the victim was subsequently transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities confirmed that the man’s injuries were not considered life-threatening, and he was expected to recover.
Investigators determined that the individual or individuals responsible for the shooting fled the area before officers arrived. As a result, no suspects were located at the scene, and no arrests have been made at this time. Police have not released a description of the suspect or suspects, nor have they provided details regarding a possible motive for the shooting.
Following the incident, officers canvassed the surrounding area, spoke with potential witnesses, and began collecting evidence to piece together the events leading up to the shooting. The location, which is a busy commercial area, was temporarily affected as police conducted their initial investigation.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing. Detectives continue to review available information, including surveillance footage from nearby businesses, in an effort to identify those involved. Police have not indicated whether the shooting was targeted or random, noting that additional details will be released if and when they become available.
Law enforcement officials are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has information that could assist in the investigation to come forward. Members of the public are encouraged to contact the Gaithersburg Police Department’s Investigative Section with any relevant tips. Police stressed that community cooperation can play a critical role in helping investigators resolve the case and maintain public safety.
