Maryland Man Arrested Following Attempted Burglary Investigation

State of DE - The Delaware State Police have arrested 19-year-old Ryan Harding of Henderson, Maryland. He has been charged with attempted burglary and related offenses following an investigation into incidents at a Marydel business.

Detectives initiated an investigation on February 8, 2026, regarding an attempted burglary at Smoke Needs, located at 825 Halltown Road in Marydel, Delaware.

Authorities learned that an unknown suspect attempted to force entry into the business during overnight hours using a hammer. The suspect was observed wearing dark clothing, gloves, and a mask.

On February 15, 2026, at approximately 2:15 a.m., detectives observed a Toyota Camry park on Halltown Road near the business. Officers made contact with the driver, identified as Harding.

He was found wearing dark clothing and latex gloves. Harding was detained without incident. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed burglary tools.

The investigation determined that Harding intended to burglarize the business that morning. Detectives also identified him as the suspect involved in the previous attempt on February 8, 2026.

Harding was transported to Troop 3 and charged with two felony counts of Attempted Burglary 3rd Degree, two felony counts of Possession of Burglar Tools, one felony count of Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony, and Criminal Mischief under $1,000. He was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3 and released on a $3,100 unsecured bond.

Disclosure: All individuals mentioned in this article are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Eastern Shore Undercover® does not express or imply any opinion regarding the incident reported.