Suspect in 2021 Shooting No Show in Court

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Laronte Collins, 18, did not appear at his pre-trial hearing before Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Melissa K. Copeland on April 7. There was no immediate explanation for his absence.

Collins, represented by defense attorney Brandon T. Taylor, is charged with attempted first- and second-degree murder, first- and second-degree assault, firearm use during a felony or violent crime, reckless endangerment, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and assault, and four handgun counts in connection to a non-fatal shooting that occurred on June 6, 2021.

As previously reported by Baltimore Witness, Collins’ trial has faced multiple delays multiple times, due to a shortage of available jurors and a change in counsel.

According to charging documents, Baltimore Police Department (BPD) officers on foot patrol responded after two men were shot on the 1600 block of Thames Street. Moments later, another victim walking on the 1600 block of Aliceanna Street was struck in the head with a bullet.

One of the shooters was seen wearing an orange hoodie and red Jordan 5 sneakers. A BPD detective allegedly identified Collins as the suspect since he was wearing similar clothing also described in a police flyer.

Collins is not scheduled for another appearance.