BPD Makes Arrest in Western District Homicide

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The Baltimore Police Department (BPD) have arrested 31-year-old Joshua Austin in connection with a homicide that occurred on Dec. 27, 2024.

Investigators determined that Austin was responsible for the death of 21-year-old Tyrez M. Countess in the 2100 block of Druid Hill Avenue. Western District patrol officers responded to the scene following ShotSpotter alerts and located Countess suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to the body. He was transported to an area hospital, where he was pronounced deceased by hospital staff.

The arrest occurred on Jan. 20, at approximately 11:27 p.m. Aviation was monitoring a vehicle related to a domestic assault and carjacking in Baltimore County. Officers tracked the vehicle to the 2900 block of Riggs Avenue, where Austin exited the vehicle and was apprehended after a brief foot pursuit.

Austin was taken to the Central Booking Intake Facility and charged with first-degree murder, handgun violations, and first-degree assault. He is currently held without bail.