A man with a criminal history is suspected of murdering a 76-year-old art gallery owner in broad daylight in Baltimore’s Fells Point neighborhood late last month.
The victim, who lived in the community with her husband, was described as someone deeply involved in her neighborhood, aiming to uplift it and support local residents.
Claudia Bismark was assaulted and robbed on September 29 after she and her husband left the Broadway Market. Unfortunately, she passed away a few days later.
According to police, officers arrived shortly after 9:30 a.m. to find that an unidentified assailant had knocked the couple to the ground and stolen a wallet. Both were taken to a hospital, but Bismark later died due to her injuries.
Detectives arrested 32-year-old Montray McCray on the same day Bismark died, charging him initially with assault and robbery. However, those charges were upgraded to include first- and second-degree murder after her death.
Interestingly, reports indicate that McCray had attacked another man just days before the incident involving Bismark. This earlier assault took place near the city’s Inner Harbor, where the victim stated he was attacked and robbed after declining to give money.
Surveillance footage from both incidents reportedly played a crucial role in identifying and catching McCray.
McCray’s court appearances are ongoing, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for October 29. His previous criminal record includes various serious charges over the past decade, including drug-related offenses and probation violations.
Bismark owned the Bismark-Wilson Art Gallery on Bank Street. Following her death, a candlelight vigil was held at the site of the assault, with friends and community members mourning her loss.
A longtime friend expressed disbelief over the violence of the incident, highlighting Bismark’s positive impact on the community and her commitment to it. There were also concerns voiced about the failure of the system in allowing McCray to be on the streets, particularly if he had mental health issues.
The surrounding area has seen an increase in crime, and recent measures have been implemented to bolster safety in Fells Point, especially following several incidents involving violence in the neighborhood.
