Full Breakdown
Parkville Man Charged with Second-Degree Murder After Pushing Victim into Baltimore’s Inner Harbor
8/5/2026, 12:17:20 AM
Fatal Harbor Altercation and Murder Charge
On August 2, around 3 p.m., 37-year-old James Britt of Baltimore was pulled from the water in the 1300 block of Lancaster Street in Harbor East after being shoved into the Inner Harbor. 36-year-old James Fitzsimmons of Parkville was arrested and charged with second-degree murder, manslaughter and assault.
Police and charging documents state that surveillance video captured Fitzsimmons and Britt fighting in an alley behind the 700 block of South Eden Street. After the fight, Britt retreated across Lancaster Street toward the water; Fitzsimmons pursued, caught up to him near the harbor’s edge, and pushed him into the water. Dive crews recovered Britt, who was pronounced dead at the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center.
Fitzsimmons told homicide detectives that Britt “jumped into the water” and that Britt’s girlfriend warned he could not swim. He is recorded as replying, “Oh well,” before walking away. Police say the video contradicts his claim, showing Fitzsimmons shoving the victim.
Data & Statistics
- Victim: James Britt, 37, Baltimore resident.
- Suspect: James Fitzsimmons, 36, Parkville resident, bartender at Keystone Korner.
- Location: Inner Harbor, Harbor East (1300 block of Lancaster Street; 700 block of South Eden Street).
- Charges: Second-degree murder, manslaughter, assault.
- Custody: Held without bond at Central Booking; no attorney listed in court records.
- Court date: Scheduled for August 27.
Official Statements & Responses
Mayor Brandon Scott commented that the incident “could have been avoided” and emphasized the need to discourage “basic conflict” that can lead to loss of life.
District Court Judge Rachel Skolnik found Fitzsimmons to be a danger to the public and ordered him held without bond pending trial.
Verbatim Quotes
- “That little conflict should not have ended in someone losing their life,” — Brandon Scott, mayor
- “It went from just a drowning to a murder investigation, so it kind of had everyone on edge,” — Miyah Ko
- “I just don't [feel safe]. I just feel like you're always looking over your shoulder,” — Suzanne Masotti, of Fells Point
What’s Next
Fitzsimmons is scheduled to appear in court on August 27, where the murder, manslaughter and assault charges will be addressed. Police continue to investigate the precise cause of death, with an autopsy pending.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources consistently describe the surveillance video, the timeline of the altercation, and Fitzsimmons’ statements. No substantive discrepancies have been reported.
