Suspect Accused of Killing Man Walking His Grandchildren Rejects Plea

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Bryant James Peyton, 27, appeared before Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Melissa K. Copeland on Feb. 14 to receive a trial date.

Peyton is charged with first-degree murder, firearm use in felony or violent crime, possession of a firearm with a felony conviction, and having a handgun on his person.

On Aug. 16, 2024, video footage captured Carroll Wonson walking with his two grandchildren into a convenience store. After leaving, a man appearing to be Peyton shot Wonson multiple times in the head and torso before aiming at Wonson’s grandchildren.

Wonson’s daughter was able to identify the victim as her father. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Peyton’s father later found the suspected murder weapon outside of his home near the fence, and his neighbor placed the suspect near the fence gate on Aug. 17.

The prosecution offered Peyton a plea deal of 25 years, the first five without parole, which he rejected.

Peyton will appear before Judge Jennifer B. Schiffer on June 2 for a five-day jury trial. If convicted, Peyton could face a life sentence.