The quiet of a Washington, D.C. suburb was shattered on February 14th with the discovery of Robert Fuller Jr., 87, found dead in his apartment. A gunshot wound to the head marked the scene as a homicide, launching a police investigation into the death of the retired Navy officer and renowned philanthropist.
Detectives have now released surveillance footage, a crucial piece in the puzzle, hoping the public can help identify a person of interest. The video captures an individual walking on the grounds of the Cogir Potomac Senior Living facility around the time of the shooting, immediately making them a suspect in Fuller’s death.
The footage reveals a figure with long, dark hair moving away from the camera in an outdoor area. While the angle obscures a clear view of the face, investigators believe the person’s walk – their gait – is a distinctive characteristic that someone might recognize.
Currently, authorities are unable to determine the suspect’s gender or race. The individual’s appearance leaves room for ambiguity, prompting a broad appeal for any information that could lead to an identification.
Robert Fuller Jr. wasn’t just a resident of the senior living facility; he was a pillar of his community in Augusta, Maine. A successful attorney and Navy veteran, Fuller dedicated much of his life and fortune to charitable causes.
Fuller’s generosity was particularly evident in his support of Cony High School, where he donated over $1.6 million to complete a much-needed modernization of the athletic complex. A project stalled by pandemic-related financial difficulties, Fuller’s contribution ensured its completion, and the field now bears his name.
His philanthropic reach extended beyond the high school, benefiting MaineGeneral Medical Center, the Kennebec Historical Society, the Kennebec Valley YMCA, Old Fort Western, and the local library. Fuller’s impact on the region was profound and far-reaching.
Investigators urge anyone who recognizes the clothing worn by the individual in the surveillance video, or who can identify the distinctive gait, to come forward. Tips can be reported to the Major Crimes Division at 240-773-5070 or Crime Solvers of Montgomery County.
Information leading to an arrest in this case may be eligible for a reward, ranging from $250 to $10,000. Authorities are hoping that this incentive, combined with the public’s help, will bring justice for Robert Fuller Jr.
