Trial Postponed for Baltimore Man in 2024 Fatal 'Ambush'

Davontaye Watkins' murder trial delayed due to defense attorney illness.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The murder trial of 29-year-old Davontaye Watkins has been postponed in Baltimore City Circuit Court due to a defense attorney's illness. Watkins is charged with first-degree murder and four gun violations in connection to the fatal shooting of 38-year-old Dwayne Flintall, which occurred nearly two years ago on the 900 block of N. Carrollton Avenue.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges prosecutors face in securing convictions, especially when dealing with violent crimes and the complexities of the legal system. The postponement of the trial could impact the community's trust in the justice system and raise concerns about delays in holding perpetrators accountable.

The details

Charging documents state that Flintall was attacked by three men immediately after exiting his car during the early morning hours of Feb. 11, 2024. A responding officer described the murder as an 'ambush.' Crime scene investigators recovered over 40 cartridge casings at the scene. Surveillance footage captured the suspects' vehicle, a 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee with temporary tags, fleeing the area at a high speed. Police located the Jeep a little over two months later, allegedly parked less than 100 yards from Watkins' home on Kavon Avenue. Prosecutors linked Watkins to the crime through DNA swabs taken from the interior of the getaway vehicle. Cellphone records revealed Watkins reportedly communicated with 45-year-old co-defendant Jerrod Fenwick in the moments leading up to the fatal shooting.

  • The murder occurred on February 11, 2024.
  • The trial was postponed on February 9, 2026.

The players

Davontaye Watkins

A 29-year-old Baltimore resident charged with first-degree murder and four gun violations in connection to the fatal shooting of Dwayne Flintall.

Dwayne Flintall

A 38-year-old Baltimore resident who was fatally shot in an alleged ambush attack in 2024.

Jerrod Fenwick

A 45-year-old co-defendant who reportedly communicated with Watkins in the moments leading up to the fatal shooting.

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What they’re saying

“We must ensure justice is served, but also recognize the complexities of the legal system that can lead to delays.”

— Jasmine Burrell, Reporter (baltimorewitness.org)

What’s next

Parties are set to reconvene on February 13 in reception court to determine a new date for the trial.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges prosecutors face in securing convictions for violent crimes, and the need for the justice system to balance fairness and efficiency to maintain public trust.