Insider Kills Millionaire Philanthropist

A trusted medication technician at an upscale senior living facility allegedly donned a wig and mask to gun down an 87-year-old millionaire philanthropist, exposing shocking vulnerabilities in elder care that demand immediate scrutiny.

Story Snapshot

  • Robert Fuller Jr., a Navy veteran, attorney, and philanthropist who donated millions, murdered in his Potomac, Maryland apartment on February 14, 2026.
  • Suspect Maurquise Emillo James, 22, facility employee with routine access, arrested February 24 after shooting at a Maryland State Trooper.
  • Police linked cases through matching bullet casings, wigs, masks found at James’ home; motive remains unclear despite claimed good relations.
  • Insider threat highlights failures in staff vetting at secure facilities serving affluent seniors.
  • James charged with first-degree murder, held without bond; multi-agency investigation ongoing.

Victim’s Distinguished Legacy

Robert Fuller Jr., 87, resided at Cogir Potomac Senior Living in affluent Potomac, Maryland, an upscale facility on the 10800 block of Potomac Tennis Lane. A retired Navy reserve officer, high-powered attorney, and descendant of Supreme Court Chief Justice Melvin Fuller, he hailed from Augusta, Maine. Fuller donated $1.64 million to upgrade Cony High School’s athletic field, now named after him. He also supported MaineGeneral Medical Center, Kennebec Historical Society, YMCA, and local landmarks. His philanthropy underscored traditional American values of service and community giving.

The Chilling Insider Attack

On February 13, 2026, Maurquise James, a 22-year-old medication technician from Baltimore, administered routine medication to Fuller and his roommate. James returned unusually to inquire if the Oxycodone had taken effect. The next morning around 7:30 AM on February 14, police responded to a medical emergency. Fuller lay dead from a gunshot wound to the head in the shared apartment. His roommate slept through the shot and later described normal relations with James. No theft occurred, pointing to a targeted killing.

Disguise and Police Breakthrough

Montgomery County Police released surveillance video on February 20-21 showing a masked suspect with long dark hair and distinctive gait on the property near the homicide time. The hair was a wig, initially obscuring gender and race. A $10,000 reward spurred tips. Capt. Sean Gagen noted investigators were fooled at first. James denied involvement, claiming a very good relationship with Fuller. Ballistics matched casings from the scenes, with wigs, masks, and paper towels found at his residences.

James exploited his employee access in a facility emphasizing security. This breach spotlights risks when staff vetting falls short, leaving vulnerable elders exposed despite high-end protections. Post-COVID staffing shortages have amplified such concerns nationwide.

Swift Arrest and Linked Violence

On February 24 around 3:30 AM, James fired twice at a Maryland State Trooper during a Baltimore traffic stop, causing powder burns before fleeing. Arrested that afternoon at Rockville traffic court due to a lookout, he faced charges February 25 including first-degree murder of Fuller, attempted first-degree murder of the trooper, assault, and firearm crimes. Maryland State Police confirmed ballistic matches. James remains held without bond in Montgomery County, with no trial date set.

Implications for Elder Safety

Cogir Potomac now faces liability questions over hiring James, who had unfettered resident access. Short-term, facilities nationwide heighten security protocols. Long-term, trust erodes in assisted living staffing amid insider threats. Fuller’s Maine networks grieve a patriot’s loss; Potomac seniors fear similar betrayals. The trooper community demands justice. This case may drive Maryland legislation strengthening background checks and access controls, protecting those who built our nation.

Sources:

Arrest made in shooting death of millionaire at Potomac senior facility; suspect wore wig.

Police release video of suspect in murder of millionaire philanthropist.

Employee at senior living facility charged in death of 87-year-old man, attempted murder of Maryland State Police trooper.

Man arrested for shooting at Maryland trooper identified as Potomac murder suspect.

Millionaire philanthropist allegedly gunned down by worker in female wig, ambushes Maryland trooper: police.