Two versions of a murder emerged in opening statements on Aug. 24. The prosecution said the defendant shot the victim out of jealousy. However, the defense countered the killing was in self defense.
Charles “Tony” Boatwright, 57, is charged with first-degree murder, firearm use during a felony, firearm possession with a felony conviction, and having a loaded handgun on his person, for his alleged involvement in the homicide of Randolph “Kojack” Smith Jr., 55, that occurred on July 13, 2025 by the Liberty gas station located on the 3900 Block of Frederick Avenue.
The prosecutor argued that text messages sent by the defendant to the victim’s wife, with whom Boatwright previously had a seven-year relationship, showed clear intent and motive to do harm to Smith…