Victim Identified
Montgomery County police have released the name of the Wheaton resident who died after becoming entangled in a “bark blower” machine in Potomac.
Michael Francisco Barrios, 15, became entangled in the equipment on May 18 while working for a landscaping contractor. His age had previously been reported as 17, but Police have corrected that, citing a language barrier and inconsistencies in record keeping for the discrepancy.
Barrios was a citizen, born in the United States before moving to Guatemala and then coming back to the U.S., said Joyce Utter of Montgomery County Police.
“He had withdrawn from Montgomery County Public Schools in 2001,” said Utter. She did not know if he was enrolled in another school.
Police say they have found no sign of foul play and that the death appears to be accidental, but the investigation is continuing.
The Maryland Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating why a 15-year old was not in school and was working with heavy machinery, Utter said.
Applicants Sought for Board of Appeals
The Montgomery County Council is seeking applicants for a four-year term on the County Board of Appeals. The term of Donald Spence (Democrat) Expires in September. Spence also serves as chairman of the board and has indicated that he will not apply for reappointment. Letters of application to serve as chairman and/or member of the board, including a resume, should be addressed to Steven Silverman, council president, and must be received no later than Wednesday, Sept. 1, at 5 p.m., in the Office of the Montgomery County Council, Stella B. Warner Council Office Building, 100 Maryland Ave., Rockville, MD 20850. For information about the position and how to apply, call Justina Feber at 240-777-7938.
Chamber Hosts Networking Event
The Potomac Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Hunter's Inn is hosting a Summer Bash Networking Event, Wednesday, June 9, 5-7 p.m., at 10123 River Road, Potomac. Admission is free for chamber members and $10 for non-members. A cash bar will be available, and hors d’oeuvres will be provided by the Hunter's Inn. R.S.V.P. by June 2 by calling 301-299-2170.
Residential Burglaries
* Avenel Farm Drive: 9900 block: Between 2 and 2:30 a.m. on April 30, suspects entered through the pet door but took nothing.
* Cartwright Way, 14500 block: Between 5 a.m. on April 24 and 11:30 p.m. on May 5, suspects broke the rear door and took currency.
* Pommel Drive, 14700 block: On May 14 between 1:15 and 5:30 p.m., suspects climbed through a window and took camera equipment, computer equipment and money.
* Old Coach Road, 10300 block: Between 11 p.m. on May 14 and 12:30 a.m. on May 15, suspects entered the garage and took a remote.
Commercial Burglaries
* Travilah Oak Beer & Wine, 12994 East Travilah Road: On May 10 at 2:21 a.m. suspects entered the front door and took cigars.
* Avalon Properties, 14240 Alta Oaks Drive: On May 10 at 2:22 a.m., suspects gained entry through an unknown method but took nothing.
* Classic Cleaners, 14119 Travilah Road: On May 13 between 1 and 1:19 a.m. suspects entered and took money.