Baltimore police are putting an $8,000 reward on the table for information that leads to an arrest in the December killing of 14-year-old Michael Roland Hitchens III, a case that has shaken the Morrell Park neighborhood and still has no named suspect.
Hitchens was shot on Dec. 13, 2025, in the 2500 block of Washington Boulevard in Morrell Park and later died at a hospital, according to police.
The Baltimore Police Department's Homicide Unit announced the reward today as detectives renewed their appeal for witnesses and surveillance footage, according to FOX45. Tips submitted to Metro Crime Stoppers that result in felony charges and an arrest may be eligible for up to $8,000.
Per Metro Crime Stoppers, anonymous tips can be submitted by calling 1-866-7LOCKUP, using the P3 Tips mobile app, or via the group’s website. Rewards are reviewed and approved by the Metro Crime Stoppers board after a tip leads to charges and an arrest, and the program stresses that callers can remain anonymous and are only paid when their information directly helps secure an arrest.
Community Mourns And Pushes For Answers
Friends, family, and neighbors have not let the case fade quietly into the background. Earlier this year, they held a march and vigil in Hitchens' memory, calling on anyone with video or information to speak up, as reported by CBS Baltimore.
Neighbors told the station that Hitchens left his home and was shot roughly 10 minutes later. Residents say they are still searching for leads and camera footage from the block and are hoping the renewed reward offer rattles loose anything people may have been holding back.
Where This Fits In Baltimore's Numbers
Citywide, Baltimore recorded a sharp drop in homicides in 2025, but the killing of a teenager is a stark reminder that the work is far from finished. The Baltimore Sun reported that Hitchens was one of three victims under 18 killed in 2025, and national outlets have detailed the broader declines and policing efforts. Those encouraging trends have not lessened the urgency around unsolved shootings involving young people.
How To Report Tips
Anyone with information is urged to contact Baltimore homicide detectives at 410-396-2100 or call Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866-7LOCKUP. Tips can be anonymous and may qualify for the advertised reward if they lead to a felony charge and an arrest.
Police are specifically asking residents and business owners to check doorbell and security cameras from around the time of the shooting and to share any relevant footage directly with investigators.
