Defense Questions Credibility of Prosecution's Key Witness in Drive-by Shooting

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In closing statements before a Baltimore City Circuit Court judge, the defense attorney for Travis Cothran, who is charged with attempted murder and other felonies related to a 2024 drive-by shooting, argued that the prosecution's star witness had an ulterior motive for identifying Cothran as the shooter. The witness was originally suspected of the crime himself before shifting blame to Cothran, the defense claimed.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges prosecutors face in securing convictions when the credibility of key witnesses is called into question by the defense. The outcome could have significant implications for Cothran, who faces a lengthy prison sentence if found guilty on the charges.

The details

The defense attorney, Natalie Finegar, told the jury that the witness was initially suspected in the Oct. 29, 2024 shooting on East North Avenue, but denied involvement until confronted with CCTV footage. The witness then claimed he was the getaway driver, not the shooter. While the witness identified Cothran in a photo array as the passenger who opened fire, he refused to sign the identification, which the defense argued was evidence the claim was false. Finegar also noted that the prosecution charged the witness with conspiracy, suggesting they did not fully believe his account. However, the prosecutor countered that the witness's testimony proved premeditation, saying Cothran asked the witness for a ride to carry out a retaliatory shooting.

• The drive-by shooting occurred on Oct. 29, 2024.
• Closing arguments were presented before Judge Hope Tipton on Jan. 23, 2026.
• The jury began deliberating the evidence on the afternoon of Jan. 23, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The jury will continue deliberating the evidence and reach a verdict in the coming days.