Two men charged after gunfire strikes home in Talbot County

CLAIBORNE, Md. — Two Maryland men have been charged with reckless endangerment after authorities say gunfire from target shooting struck a home in Talbot County.

The Talbot County Sheriff’s Office said deputies were dispatched around 5:40 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, to the 10000 block of Bayside Drive in Claiborne for a report of multiple shots fired at a residence. The caller reported hearing 30 to 40 gunshots.

Investigators determined that one round struck the home, penetrating a window. An occupant was not hit by the bullet but suffered minor injuries from debris caused by the projectile entering the residence. The person declined medical treatment, authorities said.

Deputies later responded to the 7000 block of Tilghman Island Road, where they found Thomas F. Murphy, 30, of Millersville, and Daniel P. Rauch, 30, of Mount Airy, target shooting with a rifle.

Authorities said the men were shooting in an unsafe manner and that the damaged home was about 900 yards away. Investigators seized a rifle, ammunition and multiple spent shell casings. No other homes were found to have been damaged.

Murphy and Rauch each were charged with one count of reckless endangerment. Court records show a District Court commissioner issued criminal summonses for both men. They were served Feb. 21 and released on their signatures, according to the sheriff’s office.

Authorities said neither man was prohibited from possessing firearms.

The sheriff’s office was assisted by the Maryland State Police Easton Barrack and the Maryland Natural Resources Police.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the sheriff’s office at 410-822-1020.