Baltimore Murder Trial Postponed After Defense Lawyer Falls Ill

Davontaye Watkins faces first-degree murder and firearm charges in 2024 killing

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A Baltimore City judge postponed the murder trial of Davontaye Watkins after his defense lawyer fell ill. Watkins is charged with first-degree murder and four firearm violations in the 2024 fatal shooting of Dwayne Flintall. Prosecutors say DNA and phone records link Watkins to the suspected getaway vehicle used in the attack.

Why it matters

The postponement of this high-profile murder trial highlights the challenges courts face in managing complex criminal cases, especially when unexpected events like attorney illness disrupt the proceedings. The case also underscores the gravity of the charges Watkins faces, as a first-degree murder conviction in Maryland can carry a life sentence.

The details

Watkins was set to stand trial for the February 2024 killing of Dwayne Flintall, who was shot multiple times in the 900 block of North Carrollton Avenue. Police recovered over 40 shell casings at the scene and surveillance footage allegedly showed a 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee fleeing the area. Investigators later found the Jeep parked near Watkins' home, and DNA evidence and cellphone records reportedly connected him to the suspected getaway vehicle.

  • On February 9, 2026, the judge postponed Watkins' murder trial after his defense lawyer fell ill.
  • The case is scheduled to return to reception court on February 13, 2026 to set a new trial date.

The players

Davontaye Watkins

A 29-year-old man charged with first-degree murder and four firearm violations in the 2024 killing of Dwayne Flintall.

Dwayne Flintall

A 38-year-old man who was fatally shot in the 900 block of North Carrollton Avenue in Baltimore in February 2024.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on February 13 whether to grant any additional continuances or set a firm trial date for Watkins.

The takeaway

This case highlights the logistical challenges courts face in managing complex criminal proceedings, where unexpected events like attorney illness can disrupt the judicial process. The gravity of the first-degree murder charges against Watkins also underscores the high stakes involved in this trial.