A Baltimore City jury trial over a killing at the Johnston Square Apartments was pushed back yet again on March 6 after the defense asked for more time to complete a mental health evaluation. Defendant Tyrone Kirby Epps, 64, had been set to face a jury over the November 13, 2024, shooting death of Paul Lee. Instead, the case was routed to the reception court, with all sides scheduled to return on March 20 to sort out what happens next.
Neighbors told reporters that Lee was found with gunshot wounds in the lobby of the building and later died at a hospital. Family members remembered him as a devoted father and “a sweet guy” in coverage from CBS Baltimore after the Nov. 13 shooting. Local television coverage from WBAL reported that police responded to the 500 block of East Preston Street and that the shooter ran off on foot.
Charges and court status
According to charging documents, Epps is facing one count of first-degree murder along with four firearm offenses in connection with Lee’s killing. Jury selection had been slated to start March 6, but defense counsel asked for time to complete a psychological evaluation, and the court granted a short continuance. The scheduling shift was reported by Baltimore Witness.
Defense emphasizes mental state; surveillance cited
Defense attorney Mary Patton told the court that “the crux of Mr. Epps’ defense is his mental state,” according to recent reporting. That same coverage states that charging documents and audio and video surveillance captured a verbal argument between Epps and Lee in the lobby. Epps then allegedly pointed a gun and shot Lee before leaving the building.
A source familiar with the investigation told authorities that Epps called and said he had “just shot someone” and that he was “too old for jail,” and that he had thought about killing himself on railroad tracks in West Baltimore. Baltimore Witness reported that Judge Melissa K. Copeland granted a 14-day postponement after the case was moved to the reception court. The parties are expected back in court on March 20.
What the law allows
Under Maryland law, a first-degree murder conviction can bring a sentence of life in prison, with or without the possibility of parole, depending on the specific circumstances and any statutory enhancements. Legal summaries note that first-degree murder is defined in the state’s Criminal Law Article and that the maximum penalty is life imprisonment. An overview of the statute and sentencing is available at FindLaw. The defense's decision to pursue a psychiatric evaluation could shape whether a criminal responsibility hearing is required or whether the case moves forward on the current trial track.
Next steps for the case
The reception court on March 20 will address scheduling and whether the defense’s private evaluation calls for additional hearings or more delays. If the evaluation raises concerns about criminal responsibility, Maryland courts can order further testing or competency proceedings before any jurors are sworn in. In the meantime, family members and neighbors are left waiting as the legal process continues to unfold.
