Convicted Murderer Gets Life, Family Unassuaged

Thank you for reading Baltimore Witness.
Consider making a donation to help us continue our mission.

Anger boiled over as Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Jennifer B. Schiffer sentenced convicted murderer Lionel Matthews, 41, to life in prison, plus 30 years on April 22.

On Feb. 7, a jury found Matthews guilty of shooting and killing Bryant Williams, 36, in the 100 block of S. Stockton Street on Feb. 29, 2024. Matthews was sentenced on counts of first-degree murder, firearm in a violent crime, firearm possession with a prior felony conviction, and having a loaded handgun on his person.

Video surveillance footage of the area from the day of the incident captured Matthews shooting Williams who was heard screaming in agony after the attack.

Williams’ parents addressed the court explaining not only their loss but their inability to forgive Matthews despite his apology. Toward the end of the sentencing, Williams’ father erupted in anger.

“F*ck that sh*t, he took my son away from me and my wife,” he exclaimed. He was eventually escorted out of the courtroom by sheriffs’ deputies.

Judge Schiffer reminded attendees to maintain courtroom decorum but voiced her sympathy for the victim’s family.