New details released in death of prominent DC photographer whose remains were found in Mifflin Count

Authorities in Calvert County, Maryland are releasing new details about the disappearance and death of a prominent DC-area photographer, whose remains were discovered earlier this month near a home in Brown Township, Mifflin County.

Police say investigation led to the arrest of 47-year-old Brandon Holbrook, of Reedsville, who is charged with murder in connection to the disappearance of 51-year-old Joseph Anthony Shymanski.

According to court documents obtained by 6 News on Friday, detectives with the Calvert County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to Shymanski's home, located in Huntingtown, MD, on Labor Day, after his ex-wife reported him as missing.

Police say his ex-wife had reportedly arrived at his home for a child custody exchange and discovered that he was not there.

Detectives say they spoke to a neighbor, who had reportedly last seen Shymanski the night before.

Police say they extensively searched his home and his vehicle, and discovered that he had left his cell phone behind.

Authorities say the following day, detectives reportedly discovered blood evidence in the driveway of Shymanski's home.

Police say the blood evidence found at the scene indicated signs of foul play.

Investigators say detectives then spoke with Shymanski's ex-wife, who disclosed that she and Holbrook had been in a relationship.

Police say they then identified Holbrook's vehicle and learned that it had been spotted leaving the Calvert County area on the evening of Sept. 3rd.

Authorities say they were also informed that a neighbor had remembered hearing gunshots near Shymanski's home on that same evening.

Police say the ex-wife further explained that Holbrook had reportedly expressed anger over how Shymanski had allegedly treated her and "what he put her through."

According to the affidavit, on Sept. 5th, police arrived at Holbrook's home where they located his vehicle, and he allegedly agreed to speak with detectives.

Investigators noted that, during the investigation, police stated that there was "an odor of decomposition" and maggots coming from the back of Holbrook's truck.

Police say when Holbrook was questioned about the timeline of events, he reportedly never mentioned being anywhere near Calvert County, Maryland.

Authorities say when they told Holbrook about his vehicle being spotted in the area, he allegedly invoked his rights and asked for an attorney.

Investigators say a search of Holbrook's property and vehicle led to the discovery of more blood evidence and human remains.

Police say detectives also found evidence that Holbrook had attempted to clean up the crime using plastic and bleach.

Holbrook is being held in Calvert County, Maryland, on multiple murder charges, and his bail was denied.

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