Tyrone Epps pleaded guilty to First-Degree Murder and Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Crime of Violence for fatally shooting Paul Lee

Baltimore, Md. (June 8, 2026) – Today, the Baltimore City State’s Attorney’s Office announced that Defendant Tyrone Epps was sentenced to Life, suspending all but 50 years, for fatally shooting Paul Lee at The Johnston Square Apartments in November 2024. ASA Jeffrey Finucane and Chief Michael Dunty prosecuted this case. 

“The sentence imposed today ensures that Mr. Epps will likely spend the rest of his life incarcerated for the execution-style murder of Paul Lee,” said State’s Attorney Ivan J. Bates. “While no sentence can ever restore what was taken from Mr. Lee’s family and loved ones, I hope this outcome provides a measure of justice and closure as they continue to mourn this tremendous loss. I commend Judge Dorsey for recognizing the significant threat this defendant poses to the community and handing down the maximum penalty under the plea agreement.”

At approximately 8:50 a.m. on November 13, 2024, Baltimore Police officers responded to the lobby of The Johnston Square Apartments located at 501 E. Preston Street. Upon arrival, they found an unresponsive victim, later identified as Paul Lee, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. The Victim was subsequently transported to Johns Hopkins Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

Staff at the apartment complex indicated that they suspected Defendant Tyrone Epps, who resided in apartment 414. Investigators were able to recover and review high-definition audio and video surveillance of the apartment lobby. The footage showed the Defendant approach the Victim and appear to attempt to engage in a verbal argument with the Victim. The Victim did not appear to engage back. The Defendant then pointed a gun at the Victim while the Victim attempted to retreat. The Defendant then shot at the Victim three times, striking him twice. At the time of the shooting, the Victim was attempting to hide behind another person.

Following the shooting, the Defendant fled the scene on foot and was later apprehended and provided a statement after waiving his Miranda rights. He indicated that the Victim harassed him when the Defendant moved into the building. The Defendant said he grew tired of the Victim’s behavior and admitted to getting his gun, following the Victim down into the lobby, and shooting him.