WALDORF, Md. — A Waldorf man is facing multiple charges, including felony assault, after allegedly injuring a female victim during a domestic dispute that, according to charging documents, resulted in severe spinal trauma and left the victim on life support. Matthew Alexander Buchannon, 20, was arrested following the incident, which he reportedly described as a ‘relationship discussion.’
According to officials, the incident occurred on Sept. 12, 2025, around 6:28 p.m. when emergency personnel responded to an address on Patapsco Place for a report of a person in medical distress. Court records state that first responders found the victim unconscious and not breathing in her bedroom with no visible external injuries at the scene.
According to police statements, Buchannon initially told officers the victim had fallen, and that when he tried to catch her, he also fell. The victim was transported to Charles Regional Medical Center before being moved to a regional trauma center for further treatment due to the seriousness of her condition.
During a subsequent interview at the Criminal Investigations Division, Buchannon provided a statement after being advised of his Miranda rights. He told detectives he was attempting to talk about the relationship when the victim told him to mind his business and began ignoring him while walking around the apartment.
Police allege that Buchannon followed the victim through the apartment, questioning her about their plans and her feelings. When they entered the bedroom, Buchannon allegedly picked her up in the air, reportedly intending to throw her onto the bed to get her attention. While holding her, Buchannon allegedly fell backward with the victim in his arms, causing her to fall and possibly strike her head on an object in the room.
Detectives reported observing scratches on Buchannon’s arms, back, and shoulder blades, which he was unable to explain.
According to court documents, hospital staff informed detectives that the victim may have suffered a cervical spinal cord injury, requiring the use of life support. Her condition was described as critical and life-threatening. Both Buchannon and the victim’s family stated she was in good health with no known preexisting medical conditions.
Buchannon told detectives he and the victim frequently argued about relationship issues. He reportedly stated that he often wanted to spend more time with her than she wanted to spend with him.
Buchannon is charged with first-degree assault, second-degree assault, and reckless endangerment. The first-degree assault charge carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison. The second-degree assault charge carries up to 10 years in prison and a $2,500 fine. Reckless endangerment carries up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Judge Robert B. Riddle presided over Buchannon’s bail review hearings on Sept. 15, 2025, where he was ordered held without bond. The Charles County Public Defender’s Office has entered an appearance on his behalf and filed motions requesting a speedy trial and discovery of evidence.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Oct. 10, 2025, at 9 a.m. in Charles County District Court. The State’s Attorney’s Office for Charles County is prosecuting the case.
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