Mayor William Cogswell | City of Charleston, NC
Mayor William Cogswell | City of Charleston, NC
The Charleston Police Department has charged Desean Matthews, 18, of Charleston, with attempted murder and armed robbery. The charges stem from a failed robbery that resulted in the death of 15-year-old Rakeem Baker and left a 17-year-old wounded.
Detectives determined Matthews, a relative of Baker, conspired with him to rob the 17-year-old at gunpoint. During the attempted robbery, the 17-year-old was shot but returned fire, killing Baker.
The 17-year-old was hospitalized for a gunshot wound that is not believed to be life-threatening. No charges have been filed against him at this time. Matthews is currently in custody at the Al Cannon Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing.
This investigation remains active. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the on-duty CPD Central Detective at (843) 720-2422 or via email at speaktocpd@charleston-sc.gov.
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