Trial Begins for Baltimore Takeout Restaurant Armed Robbery

Prosecutors say surveillance footage and a co-defendant's confession link 41-year-old Eddie Murphy to the New Year's Day attack.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:12pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single spent shell casing or bullet fragment, the metallic surface reflecting harsh light and casting dramatic shadows, conceptually representing the limited physical evidence in this violent crime case.Forensic evidence from the violent armed robbery provides key clues for prosecutors, though physical proof remains limited.Baltimore Today

The trial has begun for 41-year-old Eddie Murphy, who is accused of being one of two men who robbed a Baltimore takeout restaurant at gunpoint on New Year's Day 2025. Prosecutors say Murphy and another suspect, 45-year-old Christopher Brigerman, entered the American Wings & Pizza restaurant wearing masks, with Murphy allegedly carrying a gun. The men reportedly demanded cash from the register and customers before a struggle ensued, during which the restaurant owner was shot three times. Brigerman has already confessed to his role and identified Murphy as his accomplice, while the defense argues the state lacks physical evidence to connect Murphy to the crime.

Why it matters

Armed robberies of small businesses can have a devastating impact on local communities, both in terms of financial losses and the sense of safety and security. This case highlights the challenges prosecutors face in linking suspects to violent crimes when physical evidence is limited, relying instead on surveillance footage and witness testimony.

The details

According to court documents, Murphy and Brigerman entered the American Wings & Pizza restaurant on January 1, 2025, wearing masks. Murphy was allegedly carrying a gun. The men reportedly demanded that the store's owner give them all the money in the front register before ordering customers and employees to empty their pockets and hand over cash. During the robbery, a struggle ensued between the owner and Murphy, and the owner was shot twice in the head and once in the arm. The owner was able to transport himself to the hospital for treatment. The gunmen then fled the scene.

  • The armed robbery occurred on January 1, 2025.
  • Brigerman was arrested on April 9, 2025 and confessed to his involvement.
  • The trial began with opening statements on April 9, 2026.

The players

Eddie Murphy

A 41-year-old man charged with attempted murder, assault, and multiple firearm violations in connection to the armed robbery.

Christopher Brigerman

A 45-year-old man who was identified as Murphy's accomplice, has confessed to his involvement in the armed robbery, and has implicated Murphy as well.

LaZette Ringgold-Kirksey

The Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge presiding over the trial.

Jason Rodriguez

The defense attorney representing Eddie Murphy.

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What they’re saying

“'It will become clear that it is, in fact, Mr. Murphy on Jan. 1, 2025. I am going to ask you to hold him accountable for his actions and find him guilty.'”

— Prosecutor

“'to return the only proper verdict—not guilty.'”

— Jason Rodriguez, Defense Attorney

What’s next

The trial is set to continue with witness testimonies on April 10.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges prosecutors face in linking suspects to violent crimes when physical evidence is limited, and the importance of surveillance footage and witness testimony in building a strong case. The outcome of the trial will have significant implications for the local community affected by the armed robbery.