Mixed Verdict Reached in W. Caton Avenue Shootout

One defendant convicted, another faces retrial after jury deadlocks in Baltimore case.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A Baltimore City Circuit Court jury returned a mixed verdict in a case stemming from a shootout over a year ago on the 3500 block of W. Caton Avenue. Defendant Shyheem Thompson, 24, was found not guilty on multiple counts of attempted murder but convicted on assault and firearms charges, while the jury deadlocked on charges against co-defendant Marcus Lilly, 43, resulting in a mistrial.

Why it matters

The incident drew significant attention from law enforcement and the community due to the alleged confrontation between the two co-defendants and the risk posed to innocent bystanders. The mixed verdict highlights the complexities of prosecuting violent crimes and the challenges in securing convictions, even with evidence like surveillance footage and eyewitness testimony.

The details

According to court documents, Thompson and Lilly were seen circling the neighborhood looking for each other before opening fire. Both men were reportedly attempting to kill one another, and their actions put bystanders at serious risk. The victim, who was helping his cousin move appliances, was caught in the crossfire and sustained injuries. Evidence presented at trial included surveillance footage, eyewitness testimony, and cellphone records.

  • The shooting occurred over a year ago on the 3500 block of W. Caton Avenue.
  • The jury delivered its mixed verdict on Feb 3, 2026.
  • Thompson's sentencing is set for June 8, 2026.
  • Lilly's retrial is scheduled for May 26, 2026.

The players

Shyheem Thompson

A 24-year-old defendant who was found not guilty on multiple counts of attempted murder but convicted on assault and firearms charges.

Marcus Lilly

A 43-year-old co-defendant whose case resulted in a mistrial after the jury could not reach a unanimous agreement on the charges.

Judge Alan C. Lazerow

The Baltimore City Circuit Court judge who will preside over Thompson's sentencing.

Judge Lawrence P. Fletcher-Hill

The Baltimore City Circuit Court judge who will preside over Lilly's retrial.

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What’s next

Thompson's sentencing is set to proceed on June 8 before Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Alan C. Lazerow, while Lilly is scheduled to be retried on May 26 before Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Lawrence P. Fletcher-Hill.

The takeaway

The mixed verdict in this case highlights the complexities of prosecuting violent crimes and the challenges in securing convictions, even with substantial evidence. It also underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and the community to address gun violence and protect innocent bystanders in Baltimore neighborhoods.