Suspicious Person Allegedly Stalking Halls Of A Lexington Park Hotel With Large Knife Prompts Immediate Deputy Response

LEXINGTON PARK, Md. — A reported knife disturbance at an extended-stay hotel in Lexington Park has resulted in serious felony charges after deputies say a man allegedly threatened two individuals with a large folding knife. The Feb. 11, 2026, incident involves charges of first-degree assault, second-degree assault and carrying a concealed dangerous weapon.

According to the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO), deputies responded to the Extended Stay America hotel in Lexington Park for a report of a suspicious person armed with a knife. Hotel employees told deputies that a man without a reservation had been banging on a hotel room door while holding what was described as a large knife.

Deputies initially responded to the reported room but found no one outside of the room in question. After knocking and announcing their presence without response, staff informed officers that they had just seen the individual outside the building. Deputies then made contact with a man identified as Michael Ryan Norfolk, 36, of Lexington Park.

According to charging documents, Norfolk allegedly told deputies he was staying at the hotel with a friend and had obtained a key from that individual. He stated that an interior latch had been engaged on the room door, which he claimed prompted him to bang on the door to retrieve his belongings.

Police reports state hotel staff requested that deputies issue Norfolk a notice not to trespass. When asked if he possessed any weapons, authorities allege Norfolk stated he only had a cellphone.

Deputies escorted Norfolk back toward the room. A male and female occupant were outside, and an argument reportedly began immediately between the parties. The occupants told deputies that Norfolk did not have belongings in their room. The individuals were separated while deputies spoke with the occupants and escorted Norfolk inside to collect what he claimed were his items. Norfolk retrieved an electric scooter and a pink purse, both of which he claimed belonged to him.

While speaking with deputies, the occupants alleged that earlier in the day, at a nearby gas station, Norfolk had threatened them with a large knife approximately the length of his forearm with a black handle and had swung it in their direction and then punched them. The occupants declined medical treatment.

Authorities state that Norfolk attempted to leave the scene but was advised he was not free to go. He allegedly dropped his belongings and attempted to walk past officers before being detained and placed in handcuffs. Deputies reported recovering a knife without a blade from Norfolk’s person at the time of arrest.

Deputies also responded to a nearby gas station where the alleged earlier assault reportedly occurred; however, surveillance video was unavailable due to a reported equipment malfunction.

While being placed under arrest, Norfolk requested medical attention and was transported to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital for evaluation. After being medically cleared, he was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center without further incident. Authorities later reported locating a large black folding knife matching the description provided by the occupants.

Norfolk has been charged with first-degree assault, two counts of second-degree assault and carrying a concealed dangerous weapon. He is being held without bond. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 12, 2026.

Under Maryland law, first-degree assault carries a maximum penalty of up to 25 years in prison. Second-degree assault is punishable by up to 10 years of incarceration per count and potential fines. Carrying a concealed dangerous weapon can result in up to three years in prison and fines if convicted.

---