3 Baltimore Men Charged in Fatal Columbia Shooting

Suspects arrested in connection with death of 39-year-old Leon Grant last summer

Mar. 18, 2026 at 9:08pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Howard County police have announced the arrests of three Baltimore men - Montreal Proctor, Talondo Short, and Damon Simpson Jr. - in connection with the fatal shooting of 39-year-old Leon Grant in Columbia last August. The suspects are facing charges including first- and second-degree murder, assault, and firearm violations.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence and targeted attacks in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area. The arrests may provide some closure for the victim's family and community, while also raising questions about the motives and circumstances behind the shooting.

The details

According to police, Grant met Proctor in a parking lot off Dove Sail Lane and Merriweather Drive on August 19th. As Grant was entering Proctor's vehicle, Short and Simpson approached in another car. During the encounter, Grant was shot and killed. Proctor remained at the scene and spoke with officers, while Short and Simpson fled the area. Investigators determined that Proctor and Grant were known to each other, and the incident appears to have been a targeted attack.

  • The shooting occurred on August 19, 2025.
  • The suspects were arrested and charged in March 2026.

The players

Montreal Proctor

A 26-year-old Baltimore man charged with first- and second-degree murder, assault, and firearm violations in the shooting death of Leon Grant.

Talondo Short

A 36-year-old Baltimore man charged with first- and second-degree murder, assault, and firearm violations in the shooting death of Leon Grant.

Damon Simpson Jr.

A 34-year-old Baltimore man charged with first- and second-degree murder, assault, and firearm violations in the shooting death of Leon Grant.

Leon Grant

A 39-year-old man who was fatally shot in Columbia, Maryland last summer.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The suspects are being held without bond, and the investigation into the motive for the shooting is ongoing.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for continued efforts to address gun violence and improve public safety in the region, as well as the importance of thorough investigations to bring those responsible for such crimes to justice.