Potomac, Maryland — An 87-year-old philanthropist and former Navy officer was found dead from a gunshot wound in a senior living facility, raising alarms in the affluent community and in his native Maine. Robert Fuller Jr. was discovered unresponsive in his apartment at Cogir Potomac Senior Living on the morning of February 14, a tragic incident that authorities are now investigating as a homicide.
Emergency services arrived at the scene shortly after 7:30 a.m. to respond to a reported medical emergency. Despite their efforts to revive him, Fuller was pronounced dead at the scene. Early assessments by responding officers indicated significant head trauma, leading homicide detectives to conclude he had been shot. As of now, no suspects have been identified, and police have not determined whether Fuller was targeted or if the shooting stemmed from a broader incident.
Fuller, a prominent attorney and a senior officer in the Naval Reserve, had lived in Potomac for several years after relocating from Maine with his wife. Following her death, he remained in the area, where he was known for his generosity and deep connections to both communities. Friends and family remember him as a person dedicated to civic engagement, having contributed millions to various causes.
His philanthropic efforts included a significant $1.64 million donation to renovate Cony High School’s Alumni Field in Augusta, Maine, a project that had stalled due to budget challenges. The field was subsequently renamed Fuller Field in his honor, reflecting his commitment to fostering community pride through athletics.
Fuller was also a complex figure with historic ties; he was a descendant of Melville Weston Fuller, the eighth Chief Justice of the United States, who played a pivotal role in the controversial Plessy v. Ferguson decision that legitimized racial segregation. This connection brought attention to Fuller, particularly in light of the national discussions on racial justice following events like the death of George Floyd in 2020.
Kent London, president of the Kennebec Historical Society, lamented the loss of a significant benefactor. Fuller played a crucial role in establishing the society’s development fund and was instrumental in acquiring its headquarters, a property with personal historical significance for him. “He’s going to be missed,” London said, emphasizing the deep roots of the Fuller family in Augusta’s history.
As the investigation continues, the residents of the Cogir Potomac Senior Living facility are understandably shaken. Executive Director Rachel Grant communicated to residents that while this incident is isolated, the center is taking additional measures to ensure their safety. Counseling services are being offered to those affected, and heightened security protocols have been implemented.
Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in solving the case. Residents can contact Crime Solvers with tips, which may remain anonymous and could lead to a reward.
The tragic death of Robert Fuller has not only stunned those in Potomac but also resonated deeply with those in Maine, where he had made a lasting impact through his philanthropy and community engagement. As investigators work tirelessly to uncover the circumstances surrounding his death, tributes from friends and colleagues continue to pour in, honoring the legacy of a man devoted to making a difference.