In a tragic turn of events, Pedro Argote, the prime suspect in the killing of Maryland judge Andrew Wilkinson, has been found dead, putting an end to a weeklong manhunt. Authorities discovered Argote's body in a heavily wooded area in Williamsport, Maryland, at around 11 a.m. on Thursday, according to the Washington County Sheriff's office. The location of the discovery is approximately one mile from where Argote's SUV had been located earlier. Chopper4 footage captured the presence of police vehicles in the rural area.

Andrew Wilkinson, a dedicated public servant who was overseeing Argote's divorce case, was shot and killed outside his Hagerstown home on October 19. Only hours before his murder, Judge Wilkinson had granted custody of Argote's four children to Argote's wife. Following the incident, a manhunt was launched for Argote, who was believed to be armed and dangerous.

Officials initially searched the area where Argote's SUV was found but had deduced that he was not present. This prompted authorities to conduct additional evidentiary searches in the area, which ultimately led to the discovery of Argote's lifeless body. The cause of his death has not been disclosed by the sheriff's office pending further examination by the state medical examiner's office.

During a press conference held at 3 p.m., Washington County Sheriff Brian Albert expressed condolences to Judge Wilkinson's family and affirmed that their thoughts were with them during this difficult time. The news of Argote's demise came just before a visitation service for Wilkinson, which was scheduled for Thursday afternoon in Hagerstown. Several officers attended the service prior to the press conference.

Argote's motive for targeting Judge Wilkinson and committing the heinous act was believed to be rooted in the custody ruling. Wilkinson had denied Argote visitation rights due to a history of domestic violence. Testimony during the divorce proceedings revealed the shocking abuse that Argote had allegedly inflicted upon his family over the years, leading Wilkinson to conclude that he was unfit to have custody of his four younger children.

Judge Wilkinson, aged 52, dedicated his life to serving the community. State Sen. Paul Corderman described his murder as "absolutely horrific," and Wilkinson's attorney, Ashley Wilburn, praised him as an amazing man, father, husband, and judge, calling him a hero.

Wilkinson, who was sworn in as a circuit court judge in 2020, had expressed his dedication to serving the community. A graduate of the University of North Carolina in 1994, he earned his law degree from Emory University School of Law in 1997 and began his career as a circuit court law clerk in Washington County.

As the investigation into Pedro Argote's death continues, the community mourns the loss of Judge Andrew Wilkinson, remembering him as a devoted public servant who made a significant impact on the lives of many.