On the evening of February 16, 2022, a burst of gunfire in the 3500 block of Gelston Drive in Southwest Baltimore claimed the lives of two young men, Robert Lee Parks III, a 20-year-old Black male, and his friend, 19-year-old Tyjuan Keon Tates. The incident, which unfolded around 6:20 p.m., also left a 15-year-old male with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to his leg.
When police arrived at the scene, they discovered the grim reality of the violence that had just transpired.
Parks and Tates were found with life-threatening gunshot wounds and, despite medical efforts, both succumbed to their injuries. The news of the double homicide sent ripples of fear and concern through the local community, which had already been grappling with a string of violent incidents involving young people in the same area.
In the days that followed, obituaries for both young men painted a picture of their lives. Robert, known affectionately as 'Lil Robert,' was remembered for his love of family and his vibrant personality. Tyjuan, a recent high school graduate with plans to finish trade school, was a devoted father, brother, and friend.
As of late 2023, public information and news reports have not indicated any arrests or the identification of any suspects in the murders of Robert Lee Parks III and Tyjuan Keon Tates. The investigation into their deaths is being handled by homicide detectives from the Baltimore Police Department. The case is one of many unsolved homicides in a city that continues to be plagued by gun violence. Authorities have urged anyone with information regarding the shooting to come forward.
