Friend of 19-Year-Old Killed in Federal Hill Shooting Takes the Stand

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Multiple witnesses took the stand on Sept. 10 to testify in the trial of Alexis Oscar Cancel-Soto, 20. Among them was 19-year-old victim Cameran Holt‘s best friend, whose testimony drew the scrutiny of the defense.

The 18-year-old witness, whom Holt sometimes called her “cousin” due to their close friendship, recalled hearing 15 to 20 gunshots as the incident unfolded on Oct. 27, 2024. The first of the gunshots shattered the back windshield of Holt’s car where they sat in a Federal Hill parking lot, according to the witness. Daeshaun Tyreke Clark, 27, and Devontaye Richardson, 29, are also charged in this case. They are scheduled for a jury trial in October.

Holt’s friend recalled telling Holt to drive away, only to realize she had become unresponsive. The witness said she then looked out the car window to her right and saw Cancel-Soto with a firearm. During the initial investigation, officers presented her with a photographic array through which she positively identified Cancel-Soto as the shooter.

Defense attorney Marci T. Johnson cast doubt on the witness’ testimony, noting it seemed based almost entirely on conversations she had following the shooting with fellow witnesses.

In response to Johnson’s claims, the prosecution asked the witness if her recollection was an eyewitness account.

“Not from personal observation, no,” responded Holt’s friend.

The witness’ testimony marked a pivotal moment in the trial, which is expected to continue Sept. 11 before Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Nicole K. Barmore.