Baltimore man charged in fatal december shooting on druid hill avenue

BALTIMORE, MD — A suspect has been arrested in connection with a deadly shooting that occurred in the 2100 block of Druid Hill Avenue late last year, Baltimore Police announced.

Investigators determined that 31-year-old Joshua Austin, a Baltimore resident, was responsible for the December 27 shooting that claimed the life of 21-year-old Tyrez Countess.

Austin’s arrest unfolded on January 20 at approximately 11:27 p.m., when officers with Foxtrot (Aviation) tracked a vehicle linked to a domestic assault and carjacking in Baltimore County. The pursuit ended in the 2900 block of Riggs Avenue, where Austin fled on foot but was apprehended after a brief chase.

Austin has been charged with first-degree murder, handgun violations, and first-degree assault. He remains in custody without bail at the Central Booking Intake Facility.

The original incident occurred on December 27, when Western District officers responded to a shot-spotter alert. Countess was discovered with multiple gunshot wounds and later died at an area hospital.

Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact police or submit tips anonymously via Metro Crime Stoppers.

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

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Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

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