Paperwork Error Incorrectly Claimed Man Accused of Attempted Murder Was Not Alleged Shooter

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A Baltimore City state’s attorney informed a Circuit Court judge of a discrepancy in an attempted homicide case’s statement of probable cause that claimed the defendant was not the alleged shooter.

Donald Burrell, 50, is facing attempted murder, assault, and several weapons charges after allegedly shooting a man at a bus stop on E. 33rd Street and Greenmount Avenue on Aug. 29, 2021.

During a bail review hearing on Jan. 12, defense attorney Chris Purpura informed the court that his client was driving a Ford pickup and encountered the victim at the bus stop when an alleged argument ensued. Purpura said Burrell’s passenger then lowered the passenger’s side window and shot at the victim.

Purpura noted that the statement of probable cause explained that his client was not the alleged shooter in this incident. However, the prosecutor countered Purpura’s argument, saying that this was an error and that the lead detective confirmed Burrell as the shooter.

The prosecutor said “the unprovoked incident” was captured on video surveillance and a search and seizure warrant was executed on the Ford pickup prior to the defendant’s arrest on Oct. 19, 2021. Detectives identified Burrell as the alleged shooter after his fingerprints were recovered from the truck.

Based on the allegations, Burrell was denied bail and is currently scheduled for reception court on April 11.

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