Two versions of a murder emerged in opening statements on Aug. 24. The prosecution said the defendant shot the victim out of jealousy. However, the defense countered the killing was in self defense.
Charles “Tony” Boatwright, 57, is charged with first-degree murder, firearm use during a felony, firearm possession with a felony conviction, and having a loaded handgun on his person, for his alleged involvement in the homicide of Randolph “Kojack” Smith Jr., 55, that occurred on July 13, 2025 by the Liberty gas station located on the 3900 Block of Frederick Avenue.
The prosecutor argued that text messages sent by the defendant to the victim’s wife, with whom Boatwright previously had a seven-year relationship, showed clear intent and motive to do harm to Smith.
He also showed video of the night of the incident that indicated that the defendant allegedly approached the victim and pulled out his weapon. The prosecution did, however, admit that the victim was also armed.
Meanwhile, defense attorney Andrew Jezic argued that the video showed that shots were initially fired by the victim towards the defendant.
Jezic claimed the actions taken by the defendant were in self-defense, and that he only started shooting after he was shot at twice.
The defense also said that Boatwright’s actions in approaching Smith in a well-lit and heavily surveilled gas station parking lot did not fit the bill of a person trying to commit and get away with murder.
The defendant was known to be a “bluffer” who wanted to confront Smith with words rather than action, the defense said, claiming Smith had an issue with Boatwright, instead of the other way around.
Reactions of discontent from those in the gallery added to the tension in the courtroom during Monday’s proceeding requiring Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Charles Dorsey III to remind those in attendance that there was to be no contact between the victim’s family and the defendant.
The trial is expected to continue tomorrow, Aug. 25.
