With profound sadness and deep respect, Sheriff Steve Hall and the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office announce the tragic line-of-duty death of Deputy Mark Porter, a retired sergeant and cherished member of the law enforcement community. Deputy Porter, aged 60, passed away on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, while serving the residents of St. Mary’s County in his capacity as a contract deputy.
**A Distinguished Career of Service
Deputy Porter dedicated over 34 years to the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, beginning his career in the late 1980s. Rising to the rank of sergeant, he retired in 2022 but returned to serve as a contract deputy, driven by his unwavering commitment to public safety. Known for his quiet professionalism, integrity, and dependability, Porter was a cornerstone of the agency, respected by colleagues and the community alike.
Sheriff Steve Hall expressed the agency’s grief, stating, “This is a heartbreaking day for our agency. Deputy Mark Porter was dedicated to others; for him, policing was his life. His legacy is one of quiet strength, faithful service, and unwavering duty. We are devastated by his loss and hold his family, friends, and fellow deputies in our thoughts and prayers.”
**Circumstances of the Incident
On the afternoon of July 1, 2025, police responded to a welfare check at BJ’s Wholesale in the 44950 block of Worth Avenue, California, MD, where Deputy Porter was found unresponsive in his vehicle. Authorities believe his death was medically related, and no foul play is suspected. As is standard for line-of-duty deaths, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division is conducting a thorough review in accordance with Maryland state protocols.
**Honoring a Legacy
In tribute to Deputy Porter’s service, Maryland and St. Mary’s County flags have been lowered to half-staff at Sheriff’s Office facilities. Governor Wes Moore also ordered Maryland state flags to be flown at half-staff effective July 2, 2025, until further notice, in honor of Porter’s sacrifice.
The Sheriff’s Office has established a memorial tribute space in the lobby of its headquarters at 23150 Leonard Hall Drive, Leonardtown, MD, where the community can share condolences and memories. Announcements regarding funeral and memorial services will be shared once arrangements are finalized with Deputy Porter’s family. The agency requests the public’s respect and patience during this time of mourning.
**A Lasting Impact
Deputy Mark Porter’s passing leaves an immense void in the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and the community he served with distinction. His career, marked by decades of mentorship, professionalism, and dedication, will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps. The Sheriff’s Office is providing support and resources to its personnel as they grieve the loss of a beloved colleague and friend.
The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to the Porter family and expresses gratitude for the community’s support during this period of profound loss. Deputy Porter’s legacy of service will endure as a testament to his commitment to protecting and serving St. Mary’s County.
