Residents and Business Owners in Fells Point Alarmed by Rising Crime Rates
Concerns Amplified by Violent Incidents
BALTIMORE – Residents and business owners in Fells Point are voicing their frustrations over an alarming perceived increase in crime within the community. Their calls for action are directed primarily at city officials, highlighting a growing sense of insecurity and a significant breakdown in public safety.
One resident, who was a victim of a recent assault while her husband was robbed, shared her traumatic experience in a letter to Councilmember Mark Parker of District One. In her account, she detailed a horrifying incident where juveniles set her hair ablaze, underscoring that such violence is becoming all too frequent. “It makes me very angry and sad,” she expressed, emphasizing the escalating fears for both personal safety and community well-being.
Recent Violent Incidents Raise Alarms
The situation intensified following a shooting on Friday morning in which two individuals—ages 18 and 20—were injured after a dispute escalated near the community square. The incident, which resulted in gunfire striking Breah Wood’s boutique, has heightened concerns among local business owners. She remarked, “It was just terrifying to think that you could walk into a scary situation, and you might not make it out.”
Just months earlier, another shooting nearby involved two teenagers, intensifying skepticism about safety in the area. A concerned business owner noted, “This area is not really safe,” reflecting a growing worry that violence could deter customers and harm local businesses.
Calls for Action
In her detailed email to Councilmember Parker, the resident outlined not only her personal experiences but a broader pattern of criminal activity, including public indecency and noise disturbances plaguing the neighborhood. She questioned the council member’s commitment to addressing these urgent issues, asking, “What immediate steps are being taken to restore order and protect the rights of residents?”
Responses from city officials are currently pending, as inquiries to Councilmember Parker have gone unanswered.
A Community United in Concern
As local residents come together in their shared discontent, many lament the decline of Fells Point, a historically rich neighborhood they wish to see thrive. One neighbor articulated the sentiment many share: “There are a lot of residents and businesses here that are doing a wonderful job in trying to make a beautiful neighborhood and a safe neighborhood for families. And it’s just very, very sad.”
The Fells Point community awaits a meaningful response from its leaders, hoping for concrete plans to address the rising crime and restore a sense of safety and quality of life.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
Focuses on crime, public safety, and regional events.
Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.