18-year-old killed after stabbing at Montgomery County park

MONTGOMERY VILLAGE, Md. - Montgomery County police are investigating the murder of an 18-year-old man attacked at a park in Montgomery Village. Police said it is still unclear if this homicide was gang-related, but they are still investigating.

The victim's family told us Oscar Benitez was a new father and they just want to know why his life was taken.

"I don't want to believe that it's my son," said Melissa King, the victim's mother. "I'm confused to why this had to happen to him. He was trying to turn his life around."

According to police, Benitez was assaulted in the parking lot area of Centerway Park on Sunday. He was brought to Holy Cross Germantown Hospital where he was pronounced dead. His family told FOX 5 the 18-year-old was stabbed to death.

Benitez was the proud father of a baby girl.

"She is almost eight months now and he loved her dearly and he would do anything for her," King said.

On Monday afternoon, dozens of evidence markers were scattered in the parking lot of the park.

Montgomery Village residents looking to enjoy a nice day at the park with their kids were turned away as Park Police and Montgomery County investigators continued to comb through the area and photograph evidence.

Police said two other people were injured in this assault incident. They were separately treated and released, and were also interviewed by police. At this point, police said they cannot classify them as victims, suspects or witnesses.

Anyone with information about Benitez's murder is asked to contact Montgomery County Police's Major Crimes Division at 240-773-5070. Anonymous tipsters can contact Crime Solvers of Montgomery County toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). Crime Solvers of Montgomery County is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for any information that leads an arrest.