Robert Jerome Howard, 44

Baltimore, Maryland
April 15, 2016

Agencies: Baltimore Police Department Maryland

Cause of death: Shooting

Follow This Case

---

Last updated: almost 6 years ago

Overview

Howard allegedly followed an off-duty detective into a liquor store, pulled out a replica gun and a knife, and tried to rob the detective. The officer fatally shot Howard with his service weapon.

The fatal shooting of 44-year-old Robert Jerome Howard in a West Baltimore liquor store on Friday was not the first time he had been shot by police who said he pulled a weapon.

Twenty years ago, Howard was critically wounded by two officers, who said he drew a weapon and fired at them.

The circumstances then were hotly disputed. Howard was acquitted by a jury of criminal charges, and he then unsuccessfully sued the officers for $12 million. He claimed he was unarmed and had his arms raised.

This time, there is less ambiguity, as the incident was captured on surveillance cameras.

Police say they won't identify the officer because he's undercover.