Family Sues Baltimore Police Over Arabber's Fatal Shooting

Lawsuit alleges officers violated constitutional rights in death of well-known community figure

Mar. 12, 2026 at 1:48pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The family of Bilal 'B.J.' Abdullah has filed a lawsuit against three Baltimore Police officers involved in the fatal shooting of the well-known arabber last summer. The civil lawsuit accuses the officers of violating Abdullah's constitutional rights and alleges wrongful death, battery, and other civil rights violations. The family is also calling for the state attorney general to reopen the investigation into the shooting, which was previously cleared of any criminal wrongdoing.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions between the Baltimore community and its police force, with the family seeking accountability and justice for the death of a local figure. It also comes amid a broader national debate around police use of force and civil rights violations.

The details

The lawsuit alleges that the three officers pursued and fatally shot Abdullah near the Upton metro station last June. While the complaint does not specify the amount of money sought, similar civil rights cases in Baltimore have sought millions in damages. The family is also calling on the Maryland Office of the Attorney General to reopen its investigation and overturn its previous report clearing the officers of any criminal wrongdoing.

  • The fatal shooting of Bilal 'B.J.' Abdullah occurred last June.
  • The Maryland Office of the Attorney General released a report in December clearing the officers of any criminal wrongdoing.
  • The family filed the civil lawsuit on Wednesday, March 12, 2026.

The players

Bilal 'B.J.' Abdullah

A well-known arabber, or horse-drawn cart vendor, in the Baltimore community who was fatally shot by police last summer.

Baltimore Police

The police department involved in the fatal shooting of Bilal 'B.J.' Abdullah, now facing a civil lawsuit from his family.

Maryland Office of the Attorney General

The state agency that previously investigated the shooting and cleared the officers of any criminal wrongdoing, but is now being called upon to reopen the case.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must hold these officers accountable for the unjustified killing of Bilal Abdullah, a beloved member of our community.”

— Bilal Abdullah's Family (Baltimore Sun)

What’s next

The judge will need to decide whether to allow the lawsuit to proceed and whether to order the Maryland Attorney General's office to reopen its investigation into the shooting.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between Baltimore's police force and the community, with the family seeking justice and accountability for the death of a local figure. It also underscores the broader national debate around police use of force and civil rights violations.