Taneytown, MD – A Carroll County Public School teacher who was under investigation for child sexual abuse has died by suicide, according to the Taneytown Police Department. Authorities confirmed that 22-year-old Justin Rieger was found dead at Bollinger Park in Taneytown on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.
At approximately 9:16 a.m., Taneytown Police Officers were dispatched to 3775 Fringer Road, Bollinger Park, after trail-goers discovered an apparent suicide victim. Upon arrival, officers confirmed that the individual was deceased from an apparent gunshot wound. A firearm was recovered close to Rieger’s body. Investigators discovered Rieger’s vehicle in the parking lot, which was subsequently secured for processing. Maryland State Police Crime Scene and Forensic Investigators were called to the scene to assist in the ongoing investigation.
Taneytown Police Department: I would like to extend my condolences to the family and to the community. We are all saddened by today’s tragedy. I had staff place a notification on our Facebook as is our custom. I have spoken to some of you who have reached out after our most recent post, and I want to take the opportunity to address some of those concerns. Early on there were all types of speculations and mistruths being tossed about through our community. People were speculating what happened, why something happened, who did what, and why. It is my responsibility to report the facts and that is what I wanted to accomplish.
Today’s devastation is difficult, and situations like this are difficult when balancing privacy and transparency. I wanted our community to know that they can feel safe in our parks and that this was an isolated incident. I have met with members of the family and expressed my sincere apology If our post caused them any further distress as that would never be my intent.
As this is a sensitive matter; we are providing resources below. Should you need further assistance regarding this matter please feel free to contact me.
Call 988 Taneytown, Carroll County, Maryland.
Justin Rieger narrates His Story
Not sure how to even begin this. I’ve been told to be quiet for long enough, but the quiet can no longer last.
I’m at a time where I’m filled with so much confusion, anger, and just a feeling of being lost.
9 days ago I was given a call that I needed to stop all activities immediately, that there was an allegation upon me. No details shared to me, I was ordered to practically isolate and speak to no one.
This timeframe mentally took a toll on me like nothing I had ever experienced before. During this time, I decided my time with Young Life should come to an end. I decided to step down from my volunteer role. I simply cannot express my feelings enough as to how poorly this situation was handled with Young Life’s administration.
A few days later I received a message from CCPS that stated I would be placed on an Administrative Leave. I was told there was an allegation against me, but with no details as well.
As I have reached out, I have been given no more information other than I must wait until this investigation concludes, which they had stated could take months. I WILL NOT be silent for months and I will not be silent any longer.
I have devoted just about every aspect of my life the last 5 years to being a role model in the community and teaching the youth about who Jesus is. For it to come to an end in this manner, just has me so disheartened. I pray that those who know me, know my character. I pray that the truth would come to light. I feel helpless through this situation and have been treated so poorly. I was scared, I am no longer. I am no longer going to be quiet.
To my high school community. Since I may not be able to say it directly to you at the moment. I’ll leave it here:
You are always more than just a number in ministry. You are always so fully loved. I so deeply miss our conversations about God. I have not forgotten about you all. Find God in all things you do, in the highs of highs and the lows of lows. He is your comforter. If you don’t know who Jesus is, ask someone who knows him. He will change your life.
I am more than aware by posting this my time with CCPS will be coming to an end, thank you to the community for trusting me with your adolescences. I will miss every aspect of things I was involved in. Please pray for Anne and I as we navigate what life looks like ahead.
My God is my Rock.
The deceased has been identified as Justin Rieger, 22, of Taneytown. His next of kin has been notified. At this time, Bollinger Park remains closed to the public, with authorities stating they will inform the community when it reopens. Officials have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat.
Rieger was employed at Carroll County Public Schools (CCPS) as a substitute teacher at Francis Scott Key High School and an evening teacher at Carroll County Outdoor School. Additionally, he was a leader at Young Life Carroll County, an organization aimed at mentoring youth. Rieger was an alumnus of Francis Scott Key High School and was originally from Pasadena, Maryland.
The Maryland State Police have taken the lead in the investigation. Authorities have extended their condolences to Rieger’s family and friends. Further inquiries regarding this case should be directed to the Maryland State Police.
Justin Reiger funeral Arrangements will be released soon….
The post Justin Reiger Taneytown Obituary: Carroll County Public School Teacher Accused of Child Sexual Abuse has Died by Suicide first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
