BALTIMORE / TOWSON, MD — The Baltimore Police Department is investigating a fatal stabbing that claimed the life of 62-year-old John Dierker, a longtime adjunct music professor at Towson University, on Tuesday afternoon, November 10, 2026.
The incident occurred at Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park in West Baltimore, sending shockwaves through the local arts community and the Towson University campus where Dierker had taught for more than 17 years.
According to the Baltimore Police Department, officers responded to the 4200 block of Franklintown Road at approximately 3:54 p.m. on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, following a report of a cutting. At the scene, officers found Dierker suffering from stab wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
His sudden death has left family members, friends, colleagues, students and members of the university community grieving as authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.
Remembering His Contribution to Education
Dierker served as an adjunct professor in Towson University’s Department of Music, where he had worked since 2009. For more than a decade, he was part of an academic community committed to music education, creativity and artistic expression.
Through his teaching, he contributed to the educational experiences of students pursuing their interests in music. His death represents a loss felt by those who worked alongside him and the students whose academic journeys he helped shape.
Towson University expressed deep sadness over the news and extended its condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and students.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of a member of our Towson University community. Our hearts are with his family, friends, colleagues and students during this incredibly difficult time. The loss of one of our faculty members is deeply felt, and we are committed to supporting those impacted in the days ahead,” a university spokesperson said.
Investigation Continues
Police have not provided further details about the circumstances of the stabbing or announced any information about a suspect or possible motive in the information available.
As the investigation continues, those who knew John are left to remember his years of service to education and the impact he made within the Towson University community.
Heartfelt condolences go out to his loved ones, colleagues, students and everyone affected by this loss. May his memory be cherished by all who knew him.
