Defendant Who Concealed Appearance with Wig During Fatal Shooting Faces Life Sentence

Baltimore, Md. (August 1, 2025) – Today, the Office of the State’s Attorney for Baltimore City announced that defendant Tracy Jeter was found guilty by a Baltimore City jury of First-Degree Murder and Conspiracy to Commit Murder Resulting in Death. Jeter faces Life at his sentencing hearing on September 22, 2025. Assistant State’s Attorney Brent Weinberg prosecuted this case.

“This defendant’s failed attempts to disguise himself during this calculated execution demonstrates a complete lack of respect for the law and human life,” said State’s Attorney Ivan J. Bates. “I applaud the Baltimore Police and the FBI for their detailed work on this case, as well as ASA Weinberg for conducting a compelling prosecution. My office will continue to offer support to the family of Mr. Benson as we look towards the sentencing hearing to ensure that they see justice delivered on behalf of their lost loved one.” 

On December 14, 2024, at approximately 8:09 p.m., Baltimore Police officers received a ShotSpotter alert for seven rounds discharged in the 2000 block of Penrose Avenue. Approximately 22 seconds later, officers received a second ShotSpotter alert for two additional rounds behind 250 N. Payson Street. Officers responded to the locations and recovered three shell casings in the alley and seven casings in the 2000 block of Penrose Avenue. Officers discovered the victim, Travon Benson, deceased in the alley behind 250 North Payson Street, suffering from a gunshot wound to the head.

During the course of the investigation, it was determined that a 2020 Blue Hyundai Kona was present during the murder. Video footage captured the driver of the Kona honking the horn, and a man running out of the alley and getting in the car before it drove off. Foxtrot located the vehicle and followed it until it stopped in the alley of 2100 Ridgehill Avenue. The driver of the vehicle got out and was seen taking off and discarding a wig and a car key that matched the Hyundai Kona. The driver was apprehended and identified as the defendant, Tracy Jeter.