No Angry Words, Only Grief for Pregnant Murder Victim at Sentencing

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Malik McCormick, 24, was sentenced to life by Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Althea M. Handy on Feb. 19 for the murder of his former girlfriend and their unborn child.

The incident took place on the 5600 block of Woodmont Avenue on Dec. 4, 2022. 19-year-old Jaymyra Burrell was five months pregnant when McCormick shot her nine times outside of her apartment. She was carrying McCormick’s unborn child.

McCormick was initially charged with first-degree murder, knowingly committing a crime against a pregnant person, firearm use in a felony violent crime, and having a handgun on his person.

Judge Handy sentenced McCormick to life, suspending all but 15 years, with five years supervised probation for first-degree murder. For knowingly committing a crime against a pregnant person and firearm use in a felony or violent crime, he received a concurrent 30 years. He must also register as a gun offender upon release.

Burrell’s close family and friends delivered emotional victim impact statements to the court.

“She was robbed of her entirety of life,” one family member noted.

“She was not just my daughter, she was my heart, always with me wherever I went.” The victim’s mother said. “She was bright and full of life. It was an honor to be her mom.”

McCormick’s mother also spoke, telling the victim’s family she prays for their peace everyday.

Judge Handy remarked that during her career of over 22 years, she never heard victim impact statements without angry remarks.

“Your family is truly amazing.” she said. “Your strength and love for each other will get you through this.”

McCormick took the opportunity to briefly address the court.

“I want to take full responsibility for my actions,” he said. “I truly do apologize.”