Baltimore Man Gets Life Sentence for Murder 48 Hours After Prison Release

Matthew Crawley convicted of killing childhood friend Taijah Addison shortly after being freed from prison.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A Baltimore man named Matthew Crawley was sentenced to life in prison plus an additional 35 years for the murder of his childhood friend Taijah Addison, which occurred just 48 hours after Crawley was released from a 10-year prison sentence for assault and gun charges. Video evidence showed Crawley leaving a home, approaching Addison's van, and shooting him multiple times before fleeing the scene.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges of prisoner reentry and the need for better support systems to help formerly incarcerated individuals successfully transition back into their communities. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in preventing repeat offenses and protecting public safety.

The details

According to authorities, on March 6, 2025, Addison was found dead in the driver's seat of his van with multiple gunshot wounds to the head and chest. Video footage showed a man, later identified as Crawley, leaving a home, approaching the van, and shooting Addison numerous times before fleeing the scene. Police located Crawley near a dumpster shortly after the incident.

  • On March 6, 2025, Addison was found dead in his van.
  • Crawley had been released from prison just 48 hours earlier, after serving a 10-year sentence for assault and gun charges.

The players

Matthew Crawley

A Baltimore man who was convicted of first-degree murder for the deadly shooting of his childhood friend Taijah Addison, just 48 hours after being released from a 10-year prison sentence.

Taijah Addison

Crawley's childhood friend who was murdered in his van, with multiple gunshot wounds to the head and chest.

Ivan Bates

The Baltimore City State's Attorney who stated that the life sentence plus 35 years reflects the severity and depravity of the crime, and ensures that Crawley will never again be able to harm the community.

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What they’re saying

“Nothing can undo the devastating loss suffered by Mr. Addison's loved ones. Our hearts remain with them as they continue to grieve a life taken far too soon.”

— Ivan Bates, Baltimore City State's Attorney (cbsnews.com)

“Today's sentence of Life in prison plus 35 years reflects the severity and depravity of this crime and ensures that the individual responsible will never again be able to harm our community.”

— Ivan Bates, Baltimore City State's Attorney (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The judge's decision on whether to allow Crawley to be released on bail during the appeals process is expected on Tuesday.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the urgent need for better support systems and resources to help formerly incarcerated individuals successfully reintegrate into their communities and avoid recidivism, in order to prevent such senseless acts of violence from occurring in the future.