Two metal handcuffs connected by a short chain on a bright orange background; one cuff is open. — handcuff

A man accused of murdering a 24-year-old in Northwest Baltimore was arrested while allegedly trying to shoplift from a business, police said.

BALTIMORE, Md. — A suspected killer’s time on the run came to an unexpected end early Tuesday when Baltimore police arrested him while he was allegedly attempting to shoplift inside a business on Liberty Heights Avenue.

Police said 45-year-old Lamont Bates was taken into custody at about 1:40 a.m. inside a business in the 4600 block of Liberty Heights Avenue.

Investigators said Bates was wanted in connection with the fatal shooting of 24-year-old Xavier Williams, who was killed on June 20 in the 5400 block of Park Heights Avenue.

Authorities did not release additional details about the circumstances of Williams’ killing.

Shoplifting arrest leads police to alleged killer in baltimore homicide — Photo: shoplifting arrest leads police to alleged killer in baltimore homicide

Following his arrest, Bates was transported to Central Booking and charged with first-degree murder, second-degree murder and multiple handgun-related offenses.

Continue Reading

Man killed and 18-year-old wounded in Baltimore shooting

Detectives investigate deadly gunfire on McCulloh Street BALTIMORE, Md. — One man was killed and an 18-year-old was…

Motorcyclist killed after driver flees Baltimore crash and is arrested for DWI

Police say suspect left scene before being found nearby BALTIMORE, Md. — A motorcyclist was killed after a…

Man accused of pushing victim into Baltimore harbor charged with murder

Police say confrontation ended with 37-year-old's death BALTIMORE, Md. — A Parkville man has been charged with murder…

The charges are allegations, and Bates is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Police have not said whether the alleged shoplifting incident is expected to result in additional charges.

Key Points

Lamont Bates, 45, was arrested while allegedly attempting to shoplift at a business on Liberty Heights Avenue.
Police said Bates is charged in the fatal shooting of 24-year-old Xavier Williams.
Bates faces first- and second-degree murder charges along with handgun violations.

Chris Quigley Latest posts

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.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

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.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News