An 87-year-old Maryland man is facing first- and second-degree murder charges after allegedly shooting his 63-year-old roommate during a heated argument over an electrical outlet. Irwin Joseph Dickstein reportedly confessed to a local pastor that he had killed someone, prompting the clergy member to alert police, who subsequently recovered a firearm and arrested Dickstein.
Background
The incident unfolded in Frederick, Maryland, following a dispute between roommates Irwin Joseph Dickstein and Michael Roy Bushnell. According to a probable cause affidavit cited by WJLA, the conflict began over electrical work in their shared home on the first block of Franklin Street. Bushnell had reportedly told a neighbor that he was repairing an outlet and had turned off the power to the residence, a move that allegedly angered Dickstein.
The neighbor told investigators that the two men were arguing prior to hearing several loud bangs coming from the residence at approximately 5:30 a.m. by Sept. 20. By late morning, Dickstein had left the scene and traveled to Frederick Christian Fellowship Church. There, he allegedly told a pastor that he had killed someone. The pastor contacted police at about 10:30 a.m., reporting that a congregant had confessed to murder.
The Investigation
Acting on the tip, deputies with the Frederick County Sheriff's Office contacted the Frederick Police Department, which received information regarding a possible murder. Officers responded to the address provided by the witness and found the residence unsecured. Upon entering, they located Bushnell, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police located Dickstein at a separate location and took him into custody without incident. In an interview with detectives, Dickstein allegedly admitted to the murder, identified Bushnell as the victim, and confirmed the victim was inside the Franklin Street residence before refusing to speak further without a lawyer. A man who drove Dickstein to the church that morning also spoke with investigators, stating that Dickstein had mentioned needing to talk to a pastor and left what appeared to be a firearm case in the trunk of the vehicle. Police obtained a search warrant and recovered a Beretta handgun inside the case.
The Charges
Authorities announced that Dickstein has been charged with first- and second-degree murder in the death of Michael Roy Bushnell. He is currently being held in the Frederick County Jail without bond. The case highlights a rapid investigative response triggered by a civilian confession, leading to the immediate recovery of the alleged murder weapon.
Key Takeaways
- Irwin Joseph Dickstein, 87, is charged with first- and second-degree murder in the death of his roommate, Michael Roy Bushnell, 63.
- The alleged motive was a dispute over Dickstein’s anger at Bushnell turning off the power to repair an electrical outlet.
- Dickstein allegedly confessed to a pastor at Frederick Christian Fellowship Church, who immediately contacted police.
- Police recovered a Beretta handgun from a case left in the trunk of the vehicle that drove Dickstein to the church.
- Dickstein is being held without bond in Frederick County Jail and is represented by the public defender’s office.
What's Next
Dickstein is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 13 for a hearing to determine his competency. The investigation into the specific circumstances of the shooting and the timeline of the argument continues as legal proceedings move forward in the Frederick County court system.