WALDORF, Md. — An 18-year-old from Charles County has been charged with murder after allegedly stabbing his stepfather during a violent confrontation at their home on Friday night.
Sean Smith reportedly called 911 around 8:40 p.m. to confess that he had stabbed his stepfather, 45-year-old Damian Hodges, during an argument in the garage of their residence on Orkney Place. When officers arrived, they found Hodges with multiple stab wounds. Despite the attempts of both the police and emergency responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities quickly located Smith a short distance from the home and took him into custody without incident. During questioning, Smith described a physical altercation that escalated dramatically leading to the fatal stabbing.
According to court documents, a fierce argument erupted between Smith and Hodges, resulting in Hodges allegedly striking Smith multiple times. Smith told investigators that he left the garage, retrieved a kitchen knife from an upstairs area, and returned to confront Hodges again.
Upon his return, Smith claimed he brandished the knife, with Hodges warning him, “You’re not going to use that knife.” Smith asserted that after enduring another punch from Hodges, he stabbed his stepfather in the chest and discarded the knife in a nearby trash can.
A witness in the home corroborated Smith’s account, stating she saw the two men embroiled in a struggle and confirmed that Smith had a knife during the altercation. She observed them grappling in the garage just before the stabbing occurred.
Investigators recovered the knife from the trash can inside the residence, and forensic tests indicated it was the weapon used in the incident.
Smith now faces serious charges, including first- and second-degree murder, along with counts of first- and second-degree assault and reckless endangerment. He is being held without bond as he awaits his preliminary hearing set for October 28.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to fully understand the events that led to the tragic confrontation. The case has drawn attention to rising tensions within households during challenging times and the urgent need for conflict resolution resources.