Background: The block on Point No Point Drive in Annapolis where the carolers were walking (WJZ/YouTube). Inset: Paul Susie (Anne Arundel County Department of Detention Facilities).

The unsettling event unfolded on a Saturday evening at approximately 8:30 p.m., when three 12-year-old girls embarked on a festive mission, serenading residents with Christmas carols. Their route took them to the vicinity of the 1700 block of Point No Point Drive in Annapolis. In the spirit of the season, they approached various homes, sharing holiday cheer with their singing.

According to court documents obtained by the local media outlet WTOP, the incident took a concerning turn as the girls arrived at Susie’s residence. After knocking twice on his door to announce their presence as carolers, Susie, who was reportedly inside his house peering out from a bay window, allegedly brandished a firearm, pointing it at the young visitors.

This incident has raised alarms in the community, as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Susie’s actions, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community’s children during such a joyous season. The charges brought against Susie reflect the severe nature of the allegations and the impact of such actions on the young carolers and their families.

According to charging documents reviewed by local outlet WTOP, the girls were standing on Susie”s front stoop when one of them knocked twice on his door and said they were caroling. Susie was inside his home, apparently looking out a bay window.

The suspect “pointed a firearm at them from a window inside of his residence,” the police department said. Sometime later, officers responded to the scene and arrested Susie. He reportedly admitted to having been involved, saying he had drunk at least one alcoholic beverage.

Authorities noted that Susie’s stoop was well-lit at the time. His gun, a .40-caliber Glock handgun for which he had a permit, was recovered. However, he was reportedly also charged with handling a handgun while under the influence.

Annapolis, Maryland, the state’s capital, is located on Chesapeake Bay; it is roughly 30 miles east of Washington, D.C.