The coordinated response unfolded over several hours as tactical teams vetted the grounds, screened camping loops, and verified that no active threats remained within the park's 1,000-plus acres.
| Time Window | Operational Action | Public Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2:45 PM, 3:00 PM | Initial dispatch calls report a possible armed person inside the park. | Emergency alert triggered; DNR rangers initiate contact. |
| 3:00 PM, 3:30 PM | St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office arrives; park closure enforced. | Immediate evacuation of beaches, piers, and campgrounds. |
| 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM | Tactical sweep of trail systems, historic Civil War grounds, and marsh borders. | Route 5 closed south of Scotland, MD; outbound traffic vetted. |
| Evening Operations | Secondary sweeps and interviews with reporting parties; perimeter maintained. | Overnight camping access suspended; public access barred. |
