Maryland Columbia Machine shooting suspect Joe Louis Esquivel, 23, arrested for ‘killing 3 workers in Smithsburg plant’

POLICE have announced that a suspect allegedly involved in a fatal shooting at a Maryland warehouse that killed three people has been arrested.

Joe Louis Esquivel, 23, was a former employee of Columbia Machine and has been named and charged for his alleged involvement in the shooting.

Police said that Esquivel opened fire inside the warehouse on Thursday afternoon, killing three men and injuring a fourth.

The man got into an altercation with state troopers, shooting and injuring an officer before being hit with return fire.

More firearms were found in Esquivel’s West Virginia home during a search.

He was taken to a medical center for treatment before being taken into custody and he is currently being held at the Washington County Detention Center with no bond.

Esquivel has been charged with first and second-degree murder, attempted first and second-degree murder, first and second-degree assault, reckless endangerment, use of a firearm in a violent crime and other weapons charges. 

HORROR SHOOTING

The deceased victims, all employees, have been identified as Mark Alan Frey, Charles Edward Minnick Jr, and Joshua Robert Wallace.

Wallace's girlfriend made a heartbreaking post on Facebook following the news of his death.

"I’m so sorry to say that Joshua Wallace was one of the ones who was killed in todays shooting.. my heart is completely shattered," Taylor Toms wrote, tagging Wallace in her post.

"I lost the love of my life today. I love you so much baby, I hate this. Our future is gone, you’re gone, I can’t believe your gone. God I love you so much."

Minnick's family member shared a post as well, writing: "Please pray for my wonderful wife and family and the other famil[ies] involved with today's shooting in Smithburg.

"We lost a son today, he was more than a son, he was my little buddy. RIP CJ, we will miss you much."

Brandon Chase Michael has been identified as the injured victim in the deadly shooting which occurred in Smithsburg, .

Columbia Machine told The Sun that they're working with local law enforcement officials.

The company offers "complete equipment lines to customers in over 100 countries," according to their website.

David Trone, who represents Maryland's 6th congressional district, said his office was "actively monitoring the mass shooting in Smithsburg."

Senator Chris Van Hollen said his office was also monitoring the shooting.