Surveillance Video Shows Deadly Shooting, Robbery at Bridgeport Dollar Store

Jury views footage of fatal attack as murder trial begins for suspect Luis Morales

Apr. 7, 2026 at 8:04pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered glass lens reflecting a faint red light, conceptually representing the aftermath of a violent crime scene.Surveillance footage captures the final moments of a fatal shooting, exposing the harsh realities of gun violence in Bridgeport.Bridgeport Today

Jurors were shown surveillance video of a fatal shooting at a Bridgeport convenience store, where 23-year-old Clinton Taylor was killed in a violent attack. The video depicts a masked gunman opening fire on Taylor, then robbing his lifeless body before fleeing the scene. The suspect, 38-year-old Luis Morales, is now on trial for murder, felony murder, robbery, and weapons charges.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing gun violence and public safety concerns in Bridgeport, a city that has struggled with high crime rates. The disturbing footage shown in court underscores the need for improved security measures and community-based solutions to address the root causes of such senseless acts.

The details

The surveillance video shows Taylor standing at the counter of Sammy's Grocery & Dollar Store around 9:15 pm on December 16, 2021, when a masked figure with a silver pistol approached and opened fire, striking Taylor multiple times. The assailant then kicked and punched the lifeless victim before rifling through his pockets and pulling his shirt over his head, leaving him to bleed on the floor.

  • The shooting occurred around 9:15 pm on December 16, 2021.
  • Morales was arrested the same day after a police chase where he dropped a 9mm pistol with an extended magazine.

The players

Clinton Taylor

A 23-year-old Bridgeport resident who was fatally shot inside the convenience store.

Luis Morales

A 38-year-old Bridgeport resident charged with murder, felony murder, robbery, and weapons offenses in connection with Taylor's killing.

Lassan Ben-Hassen

The owner of Sammy's Grocery & Dollar Store, who identified Morales as a frequent customer and said he had done work for the business in the past.

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What they’re saying

“I entered the store and located a male on the ground that appeared to be deceased. There was a broken case of glass shattered on the ground right in front of him.”

— Sgt. Ian Schumaker, Bridgeport Police Officer

What’s next

The trial is expected to last between 5 to 10 days as the jury hears additional testimony and evidence.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the urgent need for Bridgeport to address gun violence and public safety concerns, with improved security measures, community-based solutions, and a renewed focus on preventing such senseless acts of crime.