WASHINGTON — A Maryland man is facing numerous charges, including attempted murder, after he allegedly struck two swimmers Sunday night with his personal watercraft.
The Maryland Natural Resources Police said Joseph Ireland, 28, of Glen Burnie, got into a fight with a group of people on the beach at Dobbins Island, on the Magothy River, at about 8 p.m.
Charging documents filed in Anne Arundel County District Court say that after punches were thrown, Ireland climbed aboard his orange-and-white Sea-Doo; rode a short distance, then circled back and accelerated toward two men who had waded into the water. One of the men was among those Ireland had fought with on the beach, according to the court documents.
Police say Ireland struck both men, one on the hand the other in the face, and sending them both underwater, before turning his watercraft around and heading to his father’s house, where he was arrested.
The charging documents also say Ireland was alternately belligerent and lewd to the officers, calling them various names.
Ireland is also facing charges of assault, riding a personal watercraft while drunk, resisting arrest and violating United States Coast Guard rules.
