'Need more consequences': 2 teens plead guilty to attempted robbery, murder of Rodgers Forge man

David Collins | WBALTV 11 | April 20, 2026 | Original Source

TOWSON, Md. —

Two teens charged as adults with attempted robbery and attempted murder of a Rodgers Forge man plead guilty on Monday.

News of the pleas spread fast through social media and the community's residents said they're relieved and pleased that justice has been served after the September 2024 incident.

"I would say justice served," said Jordy Bauer, a nearby resident. "It was a jarring thing to happen in this community. Not something that happens here, ever."

"Honestly, if we want the crime to really go down, we need more consequences," another resident said.

"So, I think there need to be consequences," said Martha Hylton, a nearby resident. "Too many actions, there are (no consequences). So, I feel like, actually, that's a pretty fair sentence."

Kai Wilson faces 25 years in prison after pleading guilty to attempted second-degree murder and a firearm charge.

Kamar Thompson faces 15 years after pleading guilty to attempted robbery and a firearm charge.

Wilson and Thompson tried to rob, then shot Mark McKenzie, a Rodgers Forge resident. He almost died.

"I know that person. That person, coaching the club. The same club where my kids play soccer," one resident said.

"It scared a lot of us. Everyone has cameras installed now, and we just want to make sure that the place is safe and that our kids are safe to hang in the alleys and have fun," Bauer said.

Prosecutors described overwhelming evidence that included security video from the crime scene. It shows Wilson armed with a semi-automatic handgun with a laser attachment. He wore a distinctive black sweatshirt and face mask.

Police said Wilson walked up to McKenzie to try to rob him. They got into a scuffle before McKenzie was shot.

Investigators have video of the getaway car and the suspects trying to clean it. An indoor security camera showed the suspects in Wilson's home, with Thompson reaching into a bag and pulling out a gun used in the shooting.

"We're going to go after these people, and we're going to seek substantial sentences for these kinds of crimes. The other thing I think it sends is these two aren't going to be committing any crimes in Towson for a very long time. And, hopefully, that'll make everyone feel better," said Baltimore County State's Attorney Scott Shellenberger.

The suspects were 15 and 16 years old at the time.

According to neighbors, McKenzie still has to undergo another surgery. He's expected to testify with a victim impact statement during sentencing in July.