Bicyclist fatally stabbed on trail in Baltimore’s Leakin Park

A bicyclist was fatally stabbed on a trail in Leakin Park on Tuesday afternoon, and police have no suspects, Baltimore Police confirmed.

Police disclosed Tuesday that a man was found stabbed just before 4 p.m. and pronounced dead at the scene. No other information was released, but two sources not authorized to discuss the case publicly said the victim was a bicyclist and that investigators do not yet have any suspects.

Lindsey Eldridge, the police department’s chief spokesperson, said the investigation was ongoing and confirmed that no motive or suspects had been identified.

On Thursday, police identified the victim as John Dierker, 62.

A witness told Baltimore Fishbowl that they were driving through the park and saw a man on the ground next to a bicycle near the Winans Meadow trailhead and initially thought he had been in a bike crash. But after approaching to check on him, they saw his injuries and called 911.

A spokesperson for Friends of Gwynns Falls Leakin Park said police and the city had not given them any information as of mid-afternoon Wednesday. Executive director Pickett Slater Harrington said in a statement that the organization was “deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a cyclist’s life following a violent incident in the park.”

“This incident is another reminder of the need for a comprehensive safety plan and coordinated strategies to ensure Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone. Our park should be a place where residents and visitors can safely enjoy nature, recreation, and community,” Harrington said.

He said the organization is advocating for “increased ranger resources, improved lighting and emergency communications infrastructure, safer and more welcoming facilities, and additional staffing to support daily park operations.”

City Council member Paris Gray, whose district includes the park, said he had spoken to Mayor Brandon Scott and Police Commissioner Richard Worley about the incident on Tuesday, but didn’t have more details to provide.

“I know those are questions neighbors and park users want answered, and I’m following up with BPD on what they can confirm and whether there’s any guidance residents should have,” Gray said.

He added, “My thoughts are with the man’s family and loved ones.”

Homicide detectives are investigating the stabbing. Anyone with information about the incident should call 410-396-2100.