Teen sentenced for role in 2024 fatal shooting in Rodgers Forge that left man seriously injured

Khiree Stewart | WBALTV 11 | May 6, 2026 | Original Source

TOWSON, Md. —

A teen who pleaded guilty to attempted robbery and a firearm charge will spend 25 years in prison, a judge ruled Wednesday.

Kamar Thompson was sentenced for his role in a shooting in which Mark McKenzie, a Rodgers Forge resident, almost died.

"Today, he was sentenced to 40 (years), suspended all but 25," said Scott Shellenberger, Baltimore County's state's attorney. "Because there was a handgun involved, the first five of those 25 to serve are without parole. So he will, without question, be in five more. But we believe, based upon the facts of the case, he'll be in way longer than that."

The shooting happened in 2024 when Thompson and Kai Wilson attempted to rob McKenzie, who was seriously injured after the shooting.

"In Maryland, they have things called the sentencing guidelines, and the guidelines in this case called for a sentence of eight to 15 (years). So, the judge exceeded the guidelines and explained why, and it's because... he's at his home in his alley area cleaning things up, and suddenly they attempt to rob him and shoot him," Shellenberger said.

McKenzie is continuing to recover from his injuries, which required multiple surgeries.

"He went through a lot of surgeries, a lot of problems. He is doing OK, but still does experience pain and discomfort," Shellenberger said.

Rodgers Forge residents shared their thoughts on the sentencing.

"On one hand, I'm sure (it's) a relief to the person who was injured that sort of justice was served, but it always raises a question for me when someone is in jail for that amount of time, will they come out in some way that is actually going to be better," one resident said.

"Twenty-five years I feel like is not enough, because they can't ensure their safety, especially with one of our neighbors. That's really scary, so to me, 25 years is not enough to ensure his safety," another resident said.

The other suspect, Kai Wilson, is scheduled to be sentenced in July.