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Drew Bernard Meyer, 32, entered the plea in connection with the death of his father, Wayne Michael Meyer, 65, of Chester. The younger Meyer was initially charged with first-degree murder following his arrest last May.

According to police reports, Queen Anne’s County deputies responded to a residence on Auckland Way in Chester at approximately 8:26 p.m. on May 17, 2024, for reports of a cardiac arrest. Upon arrival, deputies found the elder Meyer deceased under “suspicious circumstances.�

“Deputies were familiar with the area due to a previous well-being check,� Deputy State’s Attorney Christine Dulla Rickard said during Monday’s proceedings.

Further investigation revealed that Wayne Meyer had numerous laceration wounds consistent with sharp objects, prosecutors said.

The Queen Anne’s County Sheriff’s Criminal Investigation Unit led the investigation and identified the younger Meyer as the primary suspect.

The accused’s brother provided Meyer’s description and phone number, as well as information about a potential vehicle, claiming there had been an argument between Meyer and his father earlier that day, officials said.

Investigators noted that Auckland Way neighbors reported hearing yelling and screaming coming from the residence.

Through cooperation with other law enforcement agencies, authorities tracked the vehicle to Roanoke, Virginia, where Meyer was detained with bloody clothes and scratches on his hands, according to Dulla Rickard.

“Meyer had to be tracked from Roanoke, which brought logistical challenges,� Queen Anne’s County State’s Attorney Lance Richardson said.

Maryland State Police crime scene investigators found male DNA consistent with Meyer’s on knife handles in the kitchen. Blood was found throughout the house, including a dried shoe imprint, and cleanup efforts were identified through towels, Dulla Rickard said.

No signs of forced entry were found at the property, according to prosecutors.

The State is recommending 40 years, suspend all but 30 years to serve to be followed by probation. This recommendation is over the Maryland Sentencing guidelines which are 12 years to 20 years, according to Dulla Rickard.

Meyer’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 21 at 1:30 p.m.

Queen Anne’s County Circuit Court Judge Lynn Knight presided over Monday’s hearing.