Thank you for reading Baltimore Witness.
Consider making a donation to help us continue our mission.
By
Ben Dutcher
- February 4, 2025
Daily Stories
|
Homicides
|
Shooting
|
Counsel gave opening statements in the trial of 41-year old Lionel Matthews on Feb. 4 before Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Jennifer B. Schiffer.
Matthews is charged with first-degree murder, firearm use in a felony violent crime, possession of a firearm by a felon and having a loaded handgun on person.
The incident occurred on Feb. 29, 2024–38-year-old Bryant Williams was shot to death in the 100 block of South Stockton Street
The prosecutor opened by reminding the jury that, “unlike TV dramas,” evidence presented during the trial “won’t be in chronological order.” She stated that the jury bears the responsibility of putting the pieces together in sequential order.
The prosecution intends to call a detective to testify about how he tracked Matthews down using security camera footage.
Defense attorney Brandon Patterson stated that Matthews is “covered in a blanket of innocence” in his opening statement. He urged the jury to pay attention to the state’s evidence because it cannot prove Matthews’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The prosecution called an assistant medical examiner who examined Williams’ body. She testified that Williams’ cause of death was multiple bullet wounds and confirmed it a homicide.