An employee of a bail bonds shop on Eastern Avenue has been charged with shooting a man who was fleeing the store after getting into an argument over fake gold, Baltimore police said today.
The victim was struck in the leg; the suspect was identified as Jose Centeno, 26, of the 3800 block of Glengyle Ave. in Reisterstown. He was charged with attempted first-degree murder.
Police said he was one of two employees of Big Louie's Bail Bonds who produced guns during the argument, which occurred last week.
Here are more details from police:
4500 Blk of Eastern Avenue (Southeastern District)
4/13/11 - 13:51 Hours
On the above date/time/location an officer on routine patrol heard several gunshots. Localizing it to the front of Big Louie's Bail Bonds, he responded and further investigation revealed the following; two male subjects entered the business and a verbal altercation ensued with the owner over an attempt by the pair (the day prior) to sell fake gold.
The altercation escalated and became physical. Observing this, two other employees of the business produced handguns and attempted to intercede. As a result, the two male subjects then fled the location. One of the employees, Jose Centeno, followed them outside and fired upon the pair. It was later determined that he struck one of the pair in the leg.
The shooting victim (41-year old male) was transported to John Hopkins Hospital where he was treated and released. Mr. Centeno is being charged with 1st Degree Attempt Murder and related lesser.