Judge Reschedules Hearing for Attempted Robbery Turned Murder

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On March 7, Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Melissa K. Copeland scheduled an April hearing date for Keith Morris, 32.

In relation to the shooting that happened on Sept. 21, 2024, Morris is charged with two counts of first-degree murder and one count each of armed robbery, firearm use in a felony violent crime, and related firearm and conspiracy charges in connection to the Sept. 21, 2024 fatal shooting of George Massey III.

According to charging documents, Baltimore Police Department (BPD) officers responded to a parking lot located on the 5100 block of Park Heights Avenue for reports of a serious shooting.

Upon arrival, officers located Massey suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

During the investigation, officers learned that Massey and several other people were gathered in the back of the parking lot when a silver GMC Terrain abruptly entered the parking lot and stopped near the group. Two suspects – one in a white t-shirt and one in dark clothing, allegedly Morris, exited the vehicle. The man in the white t-shirt announced a robbery, and the man who appeared to be Morris produced a handgun.

Witnesses alleged that the suspect, who was identified as Morris, immediately shot Massey. The suspect in white, later identified as Karim Abdul, also began shooting with a handgun.

During the incident, Morris was also struck by gunfire and transported himself to Midtown Hospital, according to court documents. On Sept. 25, he was discharged and sent to the BPD Homicide Unit for questioning. Morris waived his Miranda rights and agreed to speak with detectives.

Documents state that he initially fabricated a story during the interview, saying he was the only person shot during the incident. However, he later confessed to his active involvement in the shooting and told detectives he and Abdul arrived together in the silver GMC Terrain and opened fire with guns stored in the vehicle.

Morris admitted to possession of the revolver both during and after the shooting. Video footage seemed to capture Morris dropping the revolver in the street following the incident.

The prosecution has not yet offered a plea deal. The prosecutor said they are waiting on DNA analysis and reviewing footage from over 35 body-worn cameras.

In light of the projected lengthy process, Judge Copeland scheduled Morris’ next pretrial conference hearing for April 21. Morris is represented by defense attorney Jason Rodriguez.