Bicyclist fatally stabbed near Leakin Park trail identified as faculty member at Towson U

BALTIMORE (WBFF) — The man that was fatally stabbed on a bicycle trail near Leakin Park has been identified as 62-year-old John Dierker, the Baltimore Police Department announced Thursday.

Shortly before 4 p.m. on Nov. 10, officers were called to the 4200 block of Franklintown Road, located in the city’s Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park neighborhood, for a reported cutting.

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Police said Dierker was found near a bicycle — believed to be his — on the trail suffering from multiple stab wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The discovery was made near the entrance of the trail by Franklintown Road.

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No suspect information was available Wednesday night. This investigation is active and ongoing.

Towson University confirmed that Dierker worked as an adjunct faculty member in the music department since 2009.

A university spokesperson released the following statement on his death:

We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of a member of our Towson University community. Our hearts are with his family, friends, colleagues and students during this incredibly difficult time. The loss of one of our faculty members is deeply felt, and we are committed to supporting those impacted in the days ahead.

Residents in the nearby Hunting Ridge neighborhood said the killing has left them shaken.

“It’s a little scary, yes, yes. Definitely scary,” a woman said.

ALSO READ | Hunting Ridge neighbors shaken by deadly stabbing on busy Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park trail

Mike Olliver, who identified himself as a concerned neighbor, said the location is heavily traveled.

“Where it happened is a very public spot, right near a parking lot. Either somebody had a beef, or they would just have to steal a bike. I don’t know what happened. But, it’s very shocking,” Olliver said.

Margaret Engvall, also identified as a concerned neighbor, said, “I was just horrified. Because I like to spend time in the park, although I don’t spend much. But just the idea that someone was so vulnerable there.”

Anyone with information about this homicide is asked to call detectives at 410-396-2100.

Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can contact Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866-7Lockup.