Baltimore County, January 3, 2026
The Baltimore County Police Department is mourning the passing of Detective Paul Hoke, who dedicated over 30 years to law enforcement. Hoke collapsed at work on New Year’s Eve and passed away shortly after. His legacy not only reflects his years of service but also the sacrifices made by all in law enforcement. Community support during this time is crucial, highlighting the bonds between officers and the communities they protect.
Detective Hoke’s Legacy: A Loss for Baltimore County
Honoring 30 Years of Service
BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD — The Baltimore County Police Department is mourning the loss of Detective Paul Hoke, a dedicated law enforcement officer whose career spanned three decades. Detective Hoke passed away on January 2, 2026, following a medical emergency that took place while he was working an overtime shift on New Year’s Eve.
The city felt a wave of support as friends, colleagues, and community members came together to honor Hoke’s commitment to public safety. His passing serves as a strong reminder of the personal sacrifices made by those who serve in law enforcement. This tragedy resonates deeply within the fabric of Baltimore County, encouraging discussions about community support and the importance of services offered to officers and their families.
Details of the Incident
On the evening of December 31, 2025, Detective Hoke, 49, was on duty at Precinct 6 in Towson when he suddenly collapsed at his desk. Emergency services were immediately called, and he was transported to a local hospital. Despite medical efforts, he passed away two days later, on January 2, 2026. The Baltimore County Police Department has not publicly disclosed the exact cause of the medical emergency.
Career and Contributions
Detective Hoke’s professional journey began over 30 years ago, and he dedicated himself to various roles within the department, most recently serving in the Criminal Investigations Bureau. His legacy is marked not only by his years of service but also by the influence he had on younger officers, as he was the son of retired Officer Robert Hoke, indicating a family lineage committed to serving their community.
Response from the Department
In light of this loss, Chief Robert McCullough expressed heartfelt condolences, emphasizing the profound impact Detective Hoke had on the department and the community at large. Chief McCullough highlighted the dedication and commitment of those who serve, reinforcing the view that it is individuals like Hoke who contribute to the Police Department’s reputation as a world-class agency.
Community Engagement and Support
In response to this incident, the Baltimore County Police Department is reaching out to the community, encouraging members to keep Detective Hoke and his family in their thoughts and prayers. Community backing can often play a pivotal role in helping families cope with loss, highlighting the importance of fostering connections between law enforcement and the public they serve.
Broader Context: Health and Service in Law Enforcement
This incident adds to a rising conversation regarding health and wellness within law enforcement agencies. The Baltimore County Police Department has implemented voluntary overtime opportunity programs, allowing members to manage their schedules based on operational needs. These programs, while beneficial, can also raise concerns about the stressors that officers may face during extended shifts.
Conclusion
As Baltimore County honors Detective Paul Hoke, the loss serves as a reminder of the dedication and courage exhibited by those in law enforcement. The community’s role in supporting officers and respecting their service could yield a stronger partnership in public safety. Community members are encouraged to engage in discussions, offer support, and recognize the contributions of public servants like Detective Hoke.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened to Detective Paul Hoke?
Detective Paul Hoke collapsed at his desk during a voluntary overtime shift at Precinct 6 in Towson on December 31, 2025. He was hospitalized and passed away on January 2, 2026.
How long did Detective Hoke serve in the police department?
Detective Hoke served for 30 years in the Baltimore County Police Department.
What is the department’s response to this incident?
Chief Robert McCullough expressed condolences, stating, “Our hearts are with Detective P. Hoke and his family. It is dedicated members like Detective Hoke who make the Baltimore County Police Department such a world-class agency.”
How can the community support during this time?
The Baltimore County Police Department has called for community support, asking the public to keep Detective Hoke and his family in their thoughts and prayers.
What are voluntary overtime opportunities in the department?
The department offers voluntary overtime opportunities to its members, allowing them to work additional shifts to meet operational needs. These opportunities are typically available up to 30 days in advance or on the day of the event.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | December 31, 2025 |
| Location | Precinct 6, Towson, MD |
| Detective’s Name | Paul Hoke |
| Age | 49 |
| Years of Service | 30 |
| Department Assignment | Criminal Investigations Bureau |
| Cause of Collapse | Not publicly disclosed |
| Hospitalization | January 2, 2026 |
| Community Support | Requested by the department |
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Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
