On a Sunday evening, just two weeks before Christmas in 2022, Albert Stevenson Jr., a 56-year-old man, walked into a BP gas station on Havenwood Road in Northeast Baltimore. His intention was simple: to buy a soda and a bag of chips. Unbeknownst to him, this routine errand would be his last. Shortly after entering the store, three gunmen appeared and opened fire.
Stevenson was tragically caught in the crossfire and fatally wounded, an innocent bystander in an act of violence not meant for him.
The aftermath of the shooting sent ripples of grief and anger through the local community. It was revealed that this particular gas station had a history of violent crime, with six incidents involving violence, drugs, or guns reported in the 22 months preceding Stevenson's death. This history prompted vigils and protests, with many residents and Stevenson's family demanding that the city shut down the business, which they considered a public nuisance. In response to the outcry, a public hearing was scheduled to discuss the future of the gas station. However, the hearing was ultimately canceled after the business owners reportedly cooperated with police and implemented increased security measures.
In the wake of his death, Albert Stevenson Jr.'s family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the owners of the BP gas station, alleging negligence due to inadequate security. They argued that the presence of security guards could have prevented the shooting that claimed his life. The owners, in court filings, have denied liability for his death.
As of late 2023, the Baltimore police, in conjunction with federal partners, were still actively investigating the murder of Albert Stevenson Jr. Despite following several leads and the release of surveillance footage showing the three suspects, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting. An $8,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the gunmen remains in place as his family and community continue to await justice.
