Good morning, Baltimore! This is Morgan Riley with your Saturday news update for June 7th, 2025. The word on the streets of Baltimore is that we've got a lot to cover today, so let's dive right in.
The city continues its positive momentum in reducing violence, with Baltimore wrapping up 2024 with 201 homicides, which marked a significant decrease of 60 from the previous year. However, challenges remain as we track June's incidents. This week saw several violent incidents, including a fatal shooting on June 2nd that claimed the life of 34-year-old Derek Parker in Southwest Baltimore. Additionally, two young men, ages 17 and 19, were shot near Light and Lombard streets on June 1st, though thankfully their injuries were non-life threatening.
A developing story has caught our attention in East Baltimore, where community developer Joanna Bartholomew encountered an unexpected situation yesterday morning. Bartholomew, CEO of O'Hara Development Partners and a member of Mayor Brandon Scott's former transition team, arrived at one of her rehabilitation projects to find squatters had allegedly taken over the property. The confrontation resulted in a multi-hour standoff with police and one arrest on outstanding warrants. Bartholomew had been preparing the taxpayer-funded home for sale to first-time homebuyers.
In environmental news, Governor Moore and Mayor Brandon Scott provided an update on Thursday regarding the response to a diesel fuel spill in Harbor East. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely.
If you're making weekend plans, be aware that several events will prompt road closures across Baltimore from today through tomorrow, June 8th. One of those events is the city's annual Pride Festival, which kicks off tomorrow and runs through June 15th. It promises to be a colorful celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and is expected to be bigger than ever this year.
Looking ahead to next week, Maryland Opera has announced they're now accepting applications for their free summer camp, offering a wonderful opportunity for young performers in our community.
As for weather, we're looking at a beautiful weekend ahead with temperatures in the mid-70s and partly cloudy skies – perfect conditions to enjoy the many events happening throughout the city.
In times like these, when we see both progress in public safety and ongoing challenges, it reminds us that building community requires constant attention and care. Baltimore's story continues to be written by all of us, one day at a time.
This has been Morgan Riley, your neighbor in the news. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a Baltimore news update. For more information, you can always send an email to morgan@inceptionpoint.ai or check out our website at QuietPlease.AI.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
