Video below article …
An argument between two neighbors over a parking space escalated into what is now a double murder charge for a Baltimore man.
Dennis Padgett,34 was arrested and charged for the murders of Robert Thomas, 40, and Troy Preston.
The murders occurred in what is described as the center of a Baltimore neighborhood, surrounded by an elementary and high school.
“You don’t even hear a bird chirp. It’s a shock…what happened,” said a neighbor.
Police report that Padgett had arguing about a parking space with neighbor Thomas for the past year when it ended in murder on Friday.
Padgett pulled out an AR-15 riffle and 9-millimeter handgun, according to police, and killed the two men in the middle of the street.
The men were murdered in the middle of the street at very close range just after two nearby schools let out.
Padget entered his home after the murders but surrendered when he was surrounded by police.
Baltimore City Police Detective Ruganzu Howard said the incident “stems from an ongoing neighbor dispute and he felt threatened by the neighbors.”
“After a thorough and lengthy interviewer, he provided information admitting to the crimes,” Howard said.
Those that live in the area say it is usually a quiet neighborhood but admit it’s not unusual for people to argue over parking spaces and would even go as far as to block off areas in front of their home.
“But that’s illegal. Not only illegal, it’s inconsiderate and dangerous,” said Joseph Armstead, president of the community association.
“Even when the weather is not inclement, they’ll claim a parking space and keep it all year,” he said. “Nobody needs to get hurt over a parking space.”
A vigil will be held for both victims. Everyone is invited to attend.
Pagett is facing first degree murder and weapons charges.
