Was Killer Cop Surrender Staged?

Disparities and continually changing facts leave many questions

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

The late night surrender of Baltimore Police officer Gahiji Tshamba, who was being sought on a warrant for the first degree murder of former United States Marine Tyrone Brown, should have begun to provide answers. But instead of clarity, there’s now more confusion and questions than ever.

Some with knowledge of the case suggest that in the last few hours leading up Tshamba’s surrender, his lawyer and top police commanders were in back and forth negotiations on just how to proceed. So while the public and most media were off chasing the trail of an “intensified search” for the rogue cop, some at police headquarters already knew he was about to surrender.

Was the 9:00 pm press conference, the highly publicized foot search along with neighborhood canvassing, complete with an old school wanted poster being handed out; all part of a well choreographed stage play?

For those that are skeptical, consider this; are we really to believe that with an area-wide manhunt involving city, county, state and federal officials, somehow, someway, the killer cop Tshamba, who we’re told doesn’t even own a car, just magically appeared in the lobby of central booking, sat down, crossed his fingers and waited for his lawyer to show. If that’s the case, this guy is good, really good, and damn scary. More like special forces recon than city beat cop. At least this is the way police tell us it happened.

EARLY MISDIRECTION

Also, it should be noted that initially police told us Brown was hit with six of the thirteen bullets fired. Considering the close proximity in which the incident supposedly took place, I found this quite suspicious. It wasn’t until after my prodding of Maj. Terrence McLarney, commander of the city’s homicide squad, did we learn Brown was actually hit nine times.

mis·di·rec·tion

   [mis-di-rek-shuhn] Show IPA

–noun

1.

a wrong or incorrect direction, guidance, or instruction.

I will leave questions as to why such a disparity to you the reader, but wait, it’s not over yet. After I got McLarney to up the number of bullet wounds to nine, all of the media took to adjusting and modifying their reports to include this count. Now suddenly, since Sunday morning, the Sun reports, according to charging documents and the autopsy report, Brown was actually hit with 12 of the 13 bullets fired from Tshamba’s gun.

How long was this fact known by police? Why were we not given an accurate shot count all along? Early attempts at some sort of cover-up?

Also, I’m being told that Tshamba was in the company of police officers on the night of the shooting. Could some of the witnesses have been part of an entourage of drunken cops doing their best to cover for a friend who lost it?

It is interesting to note, of all the witnesses interviewed, only the ones who were in Tshamba’s party made any mention of Brown getting into a physical altercation with Tshamaba. This story was quickly dismissed as being inconsistent and having no merit.

Furthermore, Tshamba, who we’re told hasn’t owned a car in years has been driven around, staying with, and in the company of fellow officers the whole time since AFTER the shooting, even AFTER the warrant was issued. Will we be seeing charges of aiding and abetting a fugitive?

We had gotten word of a serious and credible death threat towards Tshamba by someone with intent on avenging the death of the former Marine Tyrone Brown. It is a fact that Baltimore Police took it seriously. A whole day was spent investigating and seeking out the would be vigilante.

The Baltimore Sun did not report this, instead referring to the whole thing as a hoax. Yet today they report the death threat among other reasons why Tshamba was in hiding. In the newest Sun articles, the threat is no longer called a hoax.

In the drama filled week since Tshamba unloaded his police issued pistol into the unarmed Marine, Sunday morning’s act has got to be one of the most grand entrances ever seen, befitting of a Shakespearian tragedy. It had all the necessary elements of suspense and drama. Only problem was, with the news cameras long gone, most reporters asleep, family and friends from the vigil long gone, there was no audience, no one saw it. All part of the script? You decide.

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A.F. James MacArthur is a contributing editor and crime correspondent for Investigative Voice. Having worked nearly 20 years in public service in a wide range of capacities including patrolman (foot, bike, vehicular), search & rescue, intelligence and investigations. MacArthur’s path into journalism did not follow the typical route

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RETROSPECT ON COMPRENSIVE AS-IT-HAPPENED COVERAGE (oldest to most recent) WITH READER COMMENTS

OFFICER'S DOZEN — City cop shoots alleged assailant 13 times during altercation outside midtown bar; victim dies within the hour

NEWS FLASH - Police officer involved in weekend shooting suspended

NEWS FLASH – NAACP seeks briefing on controversial police shooting of Iraq war vet

NEWS FLASH — Police say off-duty officer shot Iraq vet nine times

‘LIFE IS TOO SHORT’ — Gunned-down Marine‘s last words haunt bar patron

NEWS FLASH! — Prosecutors issue murder warrant for off-duty cop, now missing, who shot ex-Marine

IN CUSTODY — Off-duty cop who killed Iraq War vet a week ago turns himself in to police

Slain Marine Remembered At Candle-Light Vigil

A Photo Journal With Commentary By A.F. James MacArthur, Crime Correspondent, Investigative Voice. All photos unless indicated by A.F. James MacArthur

CLICK ON PHOTOS TO ENLARGE

“Life Is Too Short” – Tyrone Brown

On the morning of June 5, 2010, former United States Marine, Tyrone Brown (left, family photo) was shot and killed by off duty Baltimore Police Officer Gahiji Tshamba. Brown served four years in the war in Iraq, surviving some of the heaviest combat of the conflict including The Battle Of Fallujah. His father Reginald Dargan (right hand photo) believed his son suffered with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Dargan said "something happened" to his son during the war that changed him. Although Brown never really spoke about it, his father says "he wasn’t the same after returning home."

The warm glow of candles illuminate a t-shirt placed on the ground by fellow Marines who served in combat in Iraq with Tyrone Brown.

The Marines, none of whom reside in Baltimore made the trip to remember their fallen brother. At various moments during the vigil, they were overcome with emotion and reduced to weeping and crying. Brown was murdered in cold blood outside a Baltimore night club by off duty Baltimore Police Officer Gahiji Tshamba. Tshamba, currently wanted for first degree murder remains a fugitive. As of 10:00 pm Saturday, Police say they have no idea of his location.

Terrell Ashburn, brother in law of slain Marine Tyrone Brown displays a t-shirt in remembrance of Brown at a candle light vigil held Saturday night at City Hall. The back side shows Brown with his sister (different from wife of Ashburn) Chantay Kangalee, who was due to be married with Brown appointed to walk her down the isle.

“I'm very upset about it [shooting death of Tyrone Brown]. It seems like whenever he got [Officer Gahiji Tshamba] drunk, he wants to shoot someone. They [Baltimore Police] shot the wrong person this time.” -- Terrell Ashburn, brother in law of Tyrone Brown.

Friends and family members including the father, mother, and a sister of murdered Marine Tyrone Brown pause for a moment of silence at a candle light vigil held Saturday to remember the fallen warrior. Brown was shot and killed by off duty Baltimore Police Officer Gahiji Tshamba. Tshamba who is now a fugitive from justice, wanted for first degree murder, fired 13 shots at Brown. Nine bullets struck brown in the head, torso and groin.

Military veteran and former Baltimore City Police Officer Frances “Jean” Hamilton speaks with Joseph Armstead (back turned), Vice President, Baltimore Branch NAACP. Hamilton is currently running for election for Sheriff of Baltimore City. Armstead is a special correspondent to MacArthur Media.

A young boy watches candles burning in honor of former Marine Tyrone Brown

IN CUSTODY

KILLER IS CAUGHT

At approximately 1:30 am, Sunday morning, while this photo journal was still being edited, a few hours after the vigil was held, Baltimore Police reported Officer Gahiji Tshamba turned himself in to central booking.

Be sure to go to Investigative Voice for continued comprehensive coverage of this developing story. As of 6:30 am Sunday morning, every news outlet in Baltimore still had headlines referencing an intensified search for Tshamba, meanwhile this spot was updated approximately 1:59 am and Investigative Voice reported the surrender on the front page at 2:27 am Sunday.

"We Will Not Rest Until He Is Brought In" – Chantay Kangalee

Rest In Peace Tyrone Brown

Long after most have burnt out, two candles remain burning bright symbolizing the undying hope of the family, that justice will be served , and representing the eternally faithful spirit of the United States Marine Corps.

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A.F. James MacArthur is a contributing editor and crime correspondent for Investigative Voice. Having worked nearly 20 years in public service in a wide range of capacities including patrolman (foot, bike, vehicular), search & rescue, intelligence and investigations. MacArthur’s path into journalism did not follow the typical route

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RETROSPECT ON COMPRENSIVE AS-IT-HAPPENED COVERAGE (oldest to most recent) WITH READER COMMENTS

OFFICER'S DOZEN — City cop shoots alleged assailant 13 times during altercation outside midtown bar; victim dies within the hour

NEWS FLASH - Police officer involved in weekend shooting suspended

NEWS FLASH – NAACP seeks briefing on controversial police shooting of Iraq war vet

NEWS FLASH — Police say off-duty officer shot Iraq vet nine times

‘LIFE IS TOO SHORT’ — Gunned-down Marine‘s last words haunt bar patron

NEWS FLASH! — Prosecutors issue murder warrant for off-duty cop, now missing, who shot ex-Marine

IN CUSTODY — Off-duty cop who killed Iraq War vet a week ago turns himself in to police

Killer Cop Surrenders

IN CUSTODY

Wanted For Murder Of Marine, Rogue Cop Shows Up At City Jail ... developing story, check back for updates.

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

According to Baltimore Police, Ofc. Gahiji Tshamba who eluded a massive manhunt on a first degree murder warrant for nearly two days, turned himself in around 1:30 am Sunday morning.

Tshamba is said to have showed up at Baltimore's Central Booking And Intake Facility, commonly known as Central Booking. The facility serves as a first point of detention for persons arrested in Baltimore City.

Due to the nature of the charge, Tshamba will automatically be held without bail. The surrender comes after an intense period of searching begging Friday evening when a rare first degree murder warrant was authorized and issued for Tshamba.

The warrant came a full week after the shooting death of Tyrone Brown. During the ensuing week between the shooting and the warrant, Baltimore residents voiced fierce opposition and displeasure. Calling for the resignation of everyone from State's Attorney Patricia Jessamy, to Police Commissioner Frederick Bealefeld III, residents flooded online talk and comment forums, along with barraging local talk radio programs in order to air sentiments of anger and frustration.

On Saturday night a candle light vigil in front of City Hall was held by family and friends. a few short blocks away at the same time, was a press conference held by Baltimore Police. At the time of the press conference, Baltimore Police along with members of the regional Warrant Apprehension Task Force were actively seeking the whereabouts of Tshamba.

The surrender came as a relief to many including Reginald Dargan, the father of victim Tyrone Brown. Contacted at home by the Baltimore Spectator, awoken from sleep, Dargan said "Oh thank God, thank you for telling me!"

See continued comprehensive coverage and read our my detailed step by step, as-it-happened breaking stories on Investigative Voice, the Voice of The People.

Kill & Walk, Kill Don’t Talk

Commentary By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

As I sit here attempting to focus my thoughts and crank out a cohesive coherent piece, I must admit, I’m struggling. In a bad, bad way, so bear with me as I do the best I can.

Thinking about my three neighbors on either side of “The Bunker” (my reinforced rowhouse) who were killed in cold blood via home invasion, I often weep. Gone is the relative comfort I once had, knowing should any trouble come through these doors, I’d be ready. Now my only option is to call 911. Lot’s of good that’ll do. Last time I needed help they arrested me. What’s next, shooting me and not the bad guy?

Thanks to the Baltimore Police and Commissioner Frederick Bealefeld’s bad guys with guns campaign, my constitutional right of self defense has been all but stripped from me. Thinking back to that fateful December night, had I killed the two intruders, rather than scaring them off, I’d be in better shape today. Had I just shot them, and kept my mouth shut, I would be free today.

Heck, Ofc. Tommy Sanders shot and killed an unarmed man who was running away from him, and some joke of jury, more like a pool of morons let him walk. Too bad his victim Lamont Hunt can’t do any walking of his own…. now that he’s DEAD.

I won’t even discuss the samurai killer, or any of the host of others, cop or citizen who’ve been able to kill and walk in this town. Truth is, of all the murders in this town, less than half are ever even solved. But bear a firearm to stand your ground against invaders, call the cops to report it, then look out. Brace yourself for what comes next. Arrest, release, re-arrest, legal fees, house broken into while arrested, a criminal record, man I could go on and on.

Then there’s that no good, piece of trash, psychopathic, killing machine Gahiji Tshamba. Another one of the finely polished, gleaming sparkling blue diamonds of the Baltimore Police Department. We all know the story by now so I’ll spare rehashing it for you.

Let me get this straight. You get to kill a man in cold blood. Remain silent, give no statements, refuse a breathalyzer, report to work… and NOW there’s a warrant. Way to go Patricia Jessamy!

Meantime while Tshamba was not under arrest or even charged, I’m sure his passport was seized right? Uh huh, I’m sure his house was searched for other personally owned weapons right? I guess not, you can’t do that without charging and arrest now can you?

It’s such a good feeling to know that the police force is replete with these kind of characters. Oh, but some of you would have us thinking these are isolated cases and anomalous incidents.

Sure they are. We B E L I E V E

But before I finish, I have to ask a few more questions. Except for Mayor Rawlings-Blake several days later making a statement, along with Del. Jill Carter releasing her own thoughts and comments, why have our so called leaders been so silent? With elected officials charged with serving the needs and well being of the citizens, an innocent man was killed by an officer of the law, but no one has anything to say about it.

Meanwhile, how come we’ve heard nothing from Frederick Bealefeld? Seriously man, it’s been like a week. One of your robo-cop killing machines has struck again. Is the silence approval, or are you too busy re-writing and revising your resignation letter?

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A.F. James MacArthur is a contributing editor and crime correspondent for Investigative Voice. Having worked nearly 20 years in public service in a wide range of capacities including patrolman (foot, bike, vehicular), search & rescue, intelligence and investigations. MacArthur’s path into journalism did not follow the typical route.

Double Homicide Leads To Weekend Kill Count Of Six In Battleground Baltimore

Weekend Gunfire Mirrors Last Weekend's 8 Shootings

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

It's been a busy weekend covering crime in Charm City. I was working on several non-crime stories, but was unable to finish due to the non stop violence escalating to a fever pitch this full moon weekend.

The latest killing was a double shooting at S. Pulaski and Hollins St.

Police investigate the murder scene at Orleans and N. Rose St. (Night Vision image, A.F. James MacArthur, BaltimoreSpectator.com)

Sunday morning, in the same neighborhood, a man was shot to death after a domestic dispute inside a house on the 2100 block of Ramsay St.

Late Friday night/early Saturday morning there were three murders. Two of them were a few blocks and a few minutes apart. I was actually at the murder scene at E. Monument St. & North Luzerne Ave. when just a few blocks away, shots rang out. I didn't know it at the time, but I had just been an ear witness to someone getting their brains blown out.

At Orleans and N. Rose St. a man riding a bicycle had been shot at point blank range in the head.

Not only was this a bit too close for comfort, it also shows the brazen boldness of the new breed of Baltimore criminal. To kill within sight and earshot of 25 police officials and a crime reporter indicates an individual for which killing is all too easy and routine. Neither one of the shootings was probably his first. And with no motive or suspects, they likely will not be his last.

Another Baltimore lone gunman continues to roam the earth in search of new targets and fresh victims.

Stealing $4 Pair Of Socks Nets Life In Prison

A Florida repeat offender recently released from jail received a sentence of life in prison for violating the terms of his release. The violation occurred when the man decided to shoplift clothing from WalMart and showed a gun while being pursued by store security.

Would Baltimore benefit from this level of harsh sentencing for repeat offenders?

Shuttered Waverly Firehouse Reopens

109 Year Old Fire House Continues To Serve, Save & Protect

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

After being shut down for nearly one year, Fire Station 31, on Greenmount Ave. officially went back into service today.

“This community needs this fire station” – Fire Chief James Clack

Located in the heart of Waverly, a community struggling for revitalization and recognition for things besides gun violence, open air drug dealing and urban blight and decay. The station houses Engine Co. 31 and Medic 3.

Due to unsafe building conditions, the station was closed last June. In an effort spearheaded by Councilwoman Mary-Pat Clarke with overwhelming community involvement, a grassroots movement raised up to save Fire Station 31. The station was once marked for permanent closure.

After being rejected for stimulus money, through bake sales, fund raising house parties, among other things and Dept. of General services bond funding, the needed half million dollars for necessary repairs was procured. Local business owners consider the fire station a vital part of the new direction of Waverly.

“This is the kind of partnership and community involvement we need to see more of” remarked Khalil Zaied, Director of the Dept. Of General Services. In a time of rotating fire station closures, and the potential layoff of hundreds of firefighters due to fiscal failures, the sentiment couldn’t be more poignant.

Back in service for less than 24 hours, the station responded to a house fire around 4:30 a.m. Saturday.

After a marching band played and various officials and community leaders gave brief remarks to the assembled crowd of nearly 200 people, an official ribbon cutting was lead out by Councilwoman Clarke. The community was then invited to tour the historic, 109 year old fire house, which dates back to the era of horse drawn fire wagons. A barbecue cook-out reception was held in the back.

One of the oldest professional fire department in the nation, the Baltimore City Fire Department has been in service for 151 years.

Excellent video report by Fox 45, watch till the end to see a few seconds of some creepy, big, tall, long hair guy off in the distance.

Three Shootings Less Than One Hour

1. Shooting, Orleans/ Rose St, adult male shot. Homicide notified.0126
   
2. Shooting, 4000 Pennington, adult male shot, homicide notified0121 hours
3. Shooting - Monument St/ Luzerne, adult male shot. Homicide unit notified.0037 hours
   developing . . .

Murder In The Streets -- Man Shot On Sidewalk, Left For Dead

Man Shot To, 4700 Blk Alhambra Ave.

Pools of blood stain the sidewalk, along with rubber gloves and other EMS ambulance paraphernalia marking the spot where a man was shot in the chest

. (A.F. James MacArthur, BaltimoreSpectator.com 21May2010)

developing . . .

Rev. Al Sharpton Visiting Baltimore, Leading Rally

Keeping It Real With Al Sharpton (Radio Show) 1:00 PM

Nationally Syndicated Radio show, special edition broadcasting live from Radio One Baltimore.

-- Rally On City Hall -- 5:00 PM

War Memorial Building

Rev. Al Sharpton to give a speech and lead a group in civil public demonstration to raise awareness of a lack of African-American ownership in the entertainment industry in Baltimore, a city with a 67% majority black population.

PRESS CONFERENCE -- 4:00 PM

(MEDIA ONLY, NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC)

For location and media access information, contact A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L., Baltimore Press Secretary For Rev. Al Sharpton -- 410-205-NEWS (6397),

Town Hall Meeting "The People's Agenda" -- 7:00 PM

Rev. Al Sharpton participates in an open forum, hosted by 92Q Radio Personality Konan, fielding questions and comments from the general public -- LOCATION: The Velvet Rope, 200 E. Redwood St.

NEWS BRIEF -- Overnight Shootings, Stabbing Add To Killings

Police investigate after a man was shot in the face near E. Eager & N.Bond St. -- (A.F. James MacArthur, BaltimoreSpectator.com)

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L., Managing Editor

Police responding to a call for shots fired near 1000 N. Broadway St. found a man with a gun shot wound to the face. The man ran out of the back of the apartment buildings to a female officer, who then requested a medic. The victim, an adult male, remained alert and responsive while being transported to nearby Johns Hopkins Emergency room.

At this time there are no known suspects or motives. Victim claims to have no knowledge of who shot him.

While this writer was on scene, police were observed knocking on door after door seeking eye or ear witnesses. Although lights were on and the residents appeared to be occupied, no one answered any of the doors. At one residence, a police officer was heard identifying himself through the door to the resident on the other side, but no one ever opened their doors.

Based on investigation and location of crime scene tape, it appears shooting actually took place closer to the intersection of E. Eager and N. Bond St.

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Man Fatally Stabbed, Harford Rd.

Around 1:30 a.m. Saturday, police found a man in his 30's on the 2800 blk of Harford Rd. suffering from stab wounds. The man was transported to Johns Hopkins Hospital where he was pronounced dead moments after arriving.

It's being reported the man may have been stabbed by someone he was in an argument with. Baltimore Police Homicide unit is seeking information from anyone that may have more information on this incident. They may be reached at 410-396-2100

Man Shot On Litchfield -- Condition Unknown

At 6:52 a.m. Baltimore Police also reported another shooting: OVERNIGHT SHOOTING - 5103 Litchfield, adult male transported to Shock Trauma.

NEWS BRIEF: Double Shooting Wednesday , Plus Additional Shooting This Morning

Police officers stand on the porch of a house next to where a 28 year old man was found shot on the 700 Blk of E. 36th St. (A.F. James MacArthur, BaltimoreSpectator.com)

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L., Managing Editor

UPDATED 0500 HRS

Around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday evening, police received a report of a young man was shot several times, including in the abdomen and shoulder, by an unknown gunman. The man was discovered in front of a house on an otherwise mostly quiet street, but apparently was shot at another location..

Baltimore Police officials not authorized to give statements to the media, describe the victim as a 28 year old black male. The current condition of the victim is unknown.

In what is now known to be a connected incident, police say at 6:35 p.m., they were notified of a walk-in shooting victim at University of Maryland Medical Center. The victim at the hospital is reportedly being uncooperative with investigating police officials.

Both shootings are reported to have taken place at Harford Rd and Homestead St. It is not known why one of the victims ended up on E. 36th St.

From Baltimore Police Twitter 3:00 a.m.: Shooting, 1000 blk W. Fayette, adult male shot in left hand

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This is a breaking news report and will be updated as more information becomes available and confirmed. Report tips, leads and story ideas by calling 410-205-NEWS

GIVE CITY HALL A PIECE OF YOUR MIND

Baltimore City Council Taxpayers Night

TONIGHT

MONDAY, MAY 10, 2010

6:00 pm

at the

War Memorial Building

(Enter from Lexington Street, just east of Gay.)

Citizens are invited to sign-in and speak-up

about your funding priorities.

Sign-in usually begins at 5:30 pm.

(Please be sure to have picture ID.)

Metered parking is available “under the Expressway,”

at Gay & Saratoga, where the Sunday Farmers Market is held.

Unending Cycles Of Violence

A man was shot in the face and killed Saturday afternoon near the intersection of N. Jefferson Ave. & Chester St.  The stop sign above; defaced with a bumper sticker advertising “Back On Your Block” Bail Bonds, is all too telling.  Just a few feet from where the murder took place.  The irony is nearly all murders in Baltimore are committed by criminals with long prior records, with many of them getting arrested and repeatedly ending up “Back On The Block” after posting bail, and committing more crimes while awaiting trial.  (A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L., Managing Editor, BaltimoreSpectator.com, 8May2010)

Police Raid Gone Wrong, Columbia, MO SWAT Kills Family Dogs

You heard about the drug raid gone bad on the house of a town Mayor in Prince Georges County, resulting in the shooting of his two friendly family dogs. Similar has happened in Columbia, MD and elsewhere. Now see for yourself the level of police resources, child endangerment and terror wreaked upon private citizens for having a small amount of pot in their house.

Is this really necessary? Is the trauma to the children, the risk of loss of life to the officers and the home dwellers, is it all worth it? What does society gain from these actions? The Spectator wants to know.

What you see here could happen in your town, as the ongoing war on drugs continues.

Whole Lotta Shooting Going On -- Last 24 Hours

SHOOTING-716 WHARTON CT-ADULT FEMALE GRAZE WOUND TO BACK -- 1952

SHOOTING - N.CHESTER ST/JEFFERSON ST-ADULT MALE SHOT. HOMICIDE NOTIFIED - reported 1815 hrs

Shooting occurred in side alley. Police source states typical no motive no suspects. Lots of people outside, but no one saw anything. This reporter spoke with several people sitting in the back alley, not only didn't they see anything, they heard nothing either. Silencer? Not likely.

SHOOTING-5201 CRAIG AVE-ADULT MALE SHOT IN THE FOOT. - reported 1800 hrs

SHOOTING-516 BEAUMINT (sic?) AVE-ADULT MALE SHOT. NON LIFE THREATENING. -- 1414 hrs

Baltimore Police look for evidence in grassy vacant lot where shooting took place.

@HeberBrown reports: Shots fired in the 500 block of Beaumont Ave. 1 young AA male shot. 1 in custody. -- Read Pastor Brown's full report

@Justin_Fenton points out: 500 Beaumont is a block of north of 500 blk of chateau ave, where 29-year-old Dwayne Majett was killed April 27

Retaliation/revenge? The Spectator wants to know.

SHOOTING, MOSHER /MONROE, ADULT MALE SHOT IN BACK. -- 0515

Filed by A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

Photos by A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

Documentary Exposing Predatory Towing In Baltimore

Silent Shootings & Inaccuracies - Pt. I

If someone gets shot, and no one hears it, has that person truly been shot?

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

There were two murders over the weekend, but like most people, you probably didn’t hear about it. Even an avid follower of news would have easily missed it. Why? Because no one covered it. The little coverage eventually surfacing was sparse, bereft of detail, and filled with errors.

It’s a sad reality, a symbolic indicator of our collective disconnect and resignation to accept low standards, when people getting gunned down in the streets is no longer news. The loss of human life is relegated merely to another dot on an already crowded crime map. The shooting’s added to a list, a numerical statistic chronicling the battleground that is Baltimore.

Are we embarrassed by all the violence? Doubtful. Perhaps we’re tired of hearing about it. That’s scary. With problems as systemic as ours, ignoring and denying them certainly won’t make them go away.

ACCURACY IN MEDIA

So back to the two murders. The first happened early Sunday morning. At 1:40 a.m. Baltimore Police announced via twitter:

"Shooting, Liberty Hts/ Gwynn Oak, adult male shot 1:40 AM Apr 25th"

No further details were ever released by the police, but 59 minutes later, after arriving on scene, this writer tweeted the following via www.twitter.com/BaltoSpectator:

"Shooting at Liberty/Gwynn Oak appears to be fatal. Lots of crime scene tape & crime lab techs on scene.2:39 AM Apr 25th"

Sunday’s news saw no mention of the shooting. One wonders why a news paper, the daily paper of record, the only paper really, the largest local media, having a website and able to add news before press time, often finds itself so slow to break news. That’s if they ever mention it at all. Indeed many shootings never make the news.

It would not be until 7:45 p.m. that Justin Fenton of the Baltimore Sun reported the following in referring to the two weekend shootings;

“The first occurred about 2:30 a.m. Sunday in the 4800 block of Liberty Heights Ave., in Northwest Baltimore's Howard Park neighborhood.”

Just a second, if the police tweeted the shooting at 1:40 a.m., how come the Sun says it happened at 2:30? The case for having different voices in local media continues to be made. Without new media, including independent and alternative blogs and sites like this, who’s going to keep an eye on the establishment media? Who’s going to compel them to offer more comprehensive coverage of the scourge of violence destroying this city?

While having good sources and talking to spokesmen and public relations people is essential, often times, this is not a substitute for planting two feet on the ground and pounding pavement.

In Part II we’ll discuss the second shooting and how citizen journalism fills in the gaps.

BREAKING: Arrests Made In Greenmount Killing

developing . . .

Troy Taylor (m-b-18) and Michael Rapheal Hunter arrested for the April 8 murder of 72 year old Charles Bowman.

Greenmount Solidarity Walk, A Show Of Support, Working Together

Rally Had A Lesson On How Government Should Function

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and a host of top Baltimore City government officials gathered on Greenmount Ave. in a show of force and support. “We want you to come out to Waverly, come out to Greenmount, but don’t bring any trouble with you" said City Council President Jack Young. “If you bring any trouble here, we got something for you.”"

A week ago today, right at Greenmout Ave. and 33rd St., the main intersection of the area, 21 year-old Damon Minor was shot and killed in broad daylight. His assailant chased him down the street firing numerous shots striking him thoughout the the body and head. The brazen attack, on a crowded street sent out shockwaves, rattling the Waverly community.

48 hours before, 72 year old Charles Bowman was shot and killed inside the Yau Brothers Carry Out Restaurant in a robbery gone bad. The Greenmount Ave./Waverly area is no stranger to violence.

Last year three people were shot inside the same Yau Brothers restaurant, leaving two dead and one seriously wounded. Several years ago, the manager of the Blockbuster Video store was shot and killed inside the store. The store permanently closed its doors as a result. The incidents all happened within the same two block radius. Spread the circle out a bit further, count other types of crimes, and the crime map becomes way too clustered and filled with too many incidents to make any sense of it.

As Mayor Blake and her entourage including Council President Jack Young, City Councilwoman Mary-Pat Clarke, City Councilman Carl Stokes, Police Commissioner Frederick Bealefeld and Fire Chief James Clack led the way, a crowd of approximately 200 people followed. Among them were local residents and business owners all out to send a message that the recent spike in violence was not acceptable and would not be taken lying down.

Hit especially hard are the merchants on Greenmount Ave. who complain that a week later, things have been tough. They say the recent violence have folks no longer feeling safe and there’s been a noticeable drop in foot traffic. Fighting to eradicate urban decay and turn things around, the merchants have a vision of Greenmount as a Waverly Main Street. A safe place to take your family shopping, dining and to experience a traditional Baltimore neighborhood.

Without a sense of safety and security, these businesses already dealing with a weakened economy, will only suffer further, with some of them not making it.

With so many heads of local government including Assistant Commissioner of Code Enforcement Eric Booker, even the Director of the Department of Transportation Alfred Foxx, it was the perfect gathering of different parts of government all coming together in the same place, at the same time, focusing on a simple central mission, and sending a clear message to the community. To those that want a better Baltimore, we’re behind you. To those who bring violence, you won’t be tolerated.

If only Baltimore City government actually functioned on a day to day basis with such cohesiveness, clear purpose and focus, what a better place this would be. Perhaps our leaders need to get out more, A LOT MORE…ALL OF THEM, together, AT THE SAME TIME, neighborhood by neighborhood. Followed up by solid continued action, there would actually be chance to reclaim this city from the current direction of destruction we’ve been headed in for some time now.

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Additional photos from today event can be viewed on my FaceBook page

Battleground Baltimore Remains A Bloody Bastion For Boundless Mayhem & Murder

Four Overnight Shootings Leave Three Dead

By A.F. James MacAthur Ph.A.L.

Despite continued cries of a so called crime decline, officials touting all sorts of statistical reports claiming reductions of violence in Baltimore, and the media all to willingly echoing the stats, is Baltimore honestly getting any safer?

The last 24 hours should serve as a reminder, as if one was needed, Baltimore remains an ever violent and dangerous city. Although so far this year reported murders are down, the high degree of mortality on the streets would put only the most naive Pollyanna at ease.

Baltimore Police's twitter feed gives a glimpse of SOME of the most violent crimes of the past day, the shootings. This of course does not take into account any muggings, assaults, robberies and all sorts of criminal activity that you, the general public, will never learn about.

It doesn't help when Baltimore Police continue to respond to calls, yet file no reports. Had I not witnessed this with my own eyes this week, I wouldn’t say this (more on that later, if they don’t silence me).

FOUR HOURS OF DEATH

10:00 P.M. Shooting, 3215 Spaulding, adult male shot

10:33 P.M. Double Shooting - Police investigating at 4116 Kenshaw.

11:14 P.M. Shooting, 1230 E. North, adult male shot in stomach

11:36 P.M. Shooting, 1121 N. Milton, adult male, Homicide requested

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------UPDATE: Moments after this story was published Baltimore Police released this via twitter; "Shooting, 1 N. Stricker, adult male with graze wound reported to police. Occured this morning at 2am." -- Of course it wasn't tweeted till 9:16 A.M.

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One of the victims of Kenshaw place is dead, and the man shot on N. Milton St. is also dead.

The shooting at 1230 E. North Ave. resulted in homicide. This is the same immediate vicinity of a homicide occurring last Sunday.

1121 N. Milton also resulted in death. A separate piece will be filed for this incident.

Police stated no known connections, nor motives for any of the shootings, but they give a snapshot at how widespread the random violence can be in this city.

At this time there are few details on the above shootings, but don’t tell that to the Baltimore Sun. As of 8:30 A.M. this morning they haven’t a single mention of the above crimes. For being the so-called news paper of record, how pathetically sad and disappointing, yet oh-so-typical.

This writer was the only representative of local media at the shooting. It’s a sad day when violent loss of life no longer warrants on scene news coverage, or when your collective local media is so weak, impotent and anemic, they just aren’t able.

Police Commissioner & Others To Lead "Solidarity Walk"

Troubled Greenmount Ave. The Focus Of Demonstration To Turn Things Around

SATURDAY, APRIL 17, 2:00 PM

BEGINNING AT DARKER THAN BLUE,

3034 GREENMOUNT AVENUE

2:00 PM

please join us as

Police Commissioner Frederick Bealefeld,

Fire Chief James Clack,

Council President Jack Young,

& our Northern District Police Commanders

lead neighbors and friends

in a

SOLIDARITY WALK TO PROMOTE RESTORED SAFETY

to GREENMOUNT AVENUE

We’ll walk north from Darker Than Blue to East 35^th Street,

then south on the eastside of Greenmount to East 29^th,

then back, completing the circuit.

We have suffered a sudden and unacceptable spike of violence in recent weeks along our Waverly Main Street.

Police, Fire and all of Baltimore City support our efforts now

to restore the safety and security we require.

Please turn-out to signal the turn-around.

Thanks.

Mary Pat Clarke, District Councilwoman

Man In Van Shot To Death In West Baltimore

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

Murder Occurred On Same Block As Blue Light Camera

Baltimore police responding to a call for shots fired around 11:35 p.m., found the body of 28-year-old Antonio Wilson, slumped over inside a 2001 Chevrolet van. The drivers side door and window had multiple bullet holes with an unstated amount of shots hitting Wilson.

Wilson was transported to Maryland Shock Trauma Center where he was pronounced dead 30 minutes later.

The incident occurred on N. Calverton St near the intersection of Wheeler Ave. This reporter observed the victims van was still running with the headlights on after crashing into the rear of a parked white pickup truck and smashing into a utility pole.

Witnesses tell the Baltimore Spectator a lone gunman on foot ran up to the van as it stood still at a stop sign and opened fire on the driver, before running off in an unknown direction. The driver of the van loss control while attempting to flee his attacker. Unconfirmed reports say a female passenger may have also been in the vehicle and was unhurt.

Although Wilson had several trials on drug related charges pending, police do not have any suspects or a motive at this time.

The shooting happened on the same block as a blue light CitiWatch surveillance camera. Police have not said whether or not the camera provided usable footage.

City School Bus Collides With Car **EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS**

By A.F. James MacArthur, photos by Dennis Pugh

Six medics responded to a collision between a car and a school bus on Loch Raven Blvd. near Lochwood Street. The crash was reported at 7:45am. Authorities say a woman driving a car carrying three children crashed with a school bus carrying special needs children to Winston Elementary.

The school bus driver was taken to nearby Good Samaritan Hospital, while two 14-year-old boys, a 12-year-old boy and a 13-year-old girl, all passengers of the school bus were taken to Johns Hopkins Bayview. Two boys, ages 7 and 14, riding in the struck vehicle were also transported to Bayview.

The Baltimore Spectator's own, photographer Dennis Pugh was on scene shortly after it the accident happened and was able to capture these dramatic photos of the scene. As horrific as it looks, we're told none of the injuries were serious.

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Man Sends Text Message Gets 15 Year Prison Sentence

"Sorry about all this. Call me when you get a chance."

For stabbing his baby mama Lakisha Frye seven times and nearly cutting off her ear, Colin Akin Johnson was sentenced to 20 years in prison. A judge ordered him to serve five of those years. After only three years and three months behind bars he was released.

The two had allegedly renewed their tumultuous relationship and Mr. Johnson sent the text above after a heated argument. It would turn out to be the most costly text message ever sent.

The Frederick News Post has more.

Change, You Call This Change?

Current Baltimore Leadership A Result Of Low Standards & Expectations

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L., Managing Editor

Last week saw the culmination to a long drawn out ordeal. After years of being a controversial and polarizing figure, Sheila Dixon was put to pasture politically. Like an old horse no longer effective in its duties, but not so worthless that it should be butchered, Sheila Dixon was given a chance to slowly fade away.

No more presidential snubs, or Jay Leno jokes, no more international headlines bearing the dubious distinction of yet another failed, disgraced, criminally convicted, black democrat politician. Believe it or not, to most living outside Baltimore, this became all we were known for. Even my friends in Europe brought it up. They voluntarily shared their views regarding Sheila Dixon. How embarrassing.

Shamefully, this all could have been avoided if Baltimore truly wanted change. One of the most perplexing matters to me is how a large body of voters who so enthusiastically rallied for and elected Barack Obama to the presidency are the same people who continuously re elect tired, worn out, worthless incumbents.

Baltimore has no issue with electing the same people over and over again, even when they fail to produce the results so desired by all. Putting the same names and faces back in year after year just to be lied to and have promises broken has become acceptable in Charm City.

Last election gave Baltimore an opportunity for change, to truly make a difference, instead we saw establishment politicians remain in their status quo positions. Some were even promoted without showing why they deserved it.

The late Ken Harris was a true champion of the people. Passionate, intelligent and connected, not bought or bossed by the machine. He would have made a most excellent City Council President.

In the Mayor’s race, Del. Jill P. Carter burst on the scene as a principled, proven independent voice. A legislator that shows no blind loyalty to party lines or special interest groups or rich business developers. The chance for true change layed right at your fingertips Baltimore, but you fell for the same old song and dance that’s been used to pimp our people for decades. Now look what you got.

Let’s not even get into how after nearly eight years of the disastrous O’Malley Mayorship, you people turned around and promoted him to Governor. After leaving Baltimore an utter and complete mess in nearly every category that counts, you thought he did such a good job that rest of Maryland should have a chance to suffer with us.

Mayor designate Stephanie Rawlings-Blake openly admits her close ties and allegiance with Governor Martin O’Malley. The man who took this city to a place, even most Dixon supporters don’t ever want to see us go again. Besides viewing him as a mentor and personal hero, she even relies on some of his cast off staff members to run her office. Change? You call that change? YEAH RIGHT!!!