Fight suspect’s attorney says he was intervening, BPD says video captured push into water

BALTIMORE, Md. (WBFF) — A judge has denied bond for the Baltimore County man now charged with murder after a fight in Harbor East this past weekend.

James Fitzsimmons, 36, is facing second-degree murder, manslaughter, and first- and second-degree assault charges in connection with the death of James Britt, 37, of Baltimore.

Officers were called to the 1300 block of Lancaster Street in Harbor East around 3 p.m. Sunday after reports of someone who had gone into the water and not resurfaced.

A dive team located Britt’s body and later transported it to the medical examiner’s office for autopsy, where an exact cause of death will be determined.

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Fitzsimmons was taken into custody following questioning with homicide detectives with the Baltimore Police Department.

During his bond hearing, the Defense told the Judge Fitzsimmons had stepped in when he witnessed Britt ‘verbally abusing’ Britt’s fiancée, and when the two men began fighting, Britt head-butted and whipped him with a belt.

The Defense also argued Fitzsimmons did not push him into the water, and didn’t feel the need to stay after being informed Britt could not swim because he believed the water was 4-5 feet deep.

During the hearing, the State pointed to allegations and evidence outlined in newly obtained charging documents.

According to the statement of charges, investigators wrote surveillance video captured the fight as well as Fitzsimmons pushing the victim into the water.

The document went on to allege that when detectives interviewed Fitzsimmons, he admitted the victim was retreating from his advances and replied, “Oh well,” and walked away when the victim’s girlfriend stated he couldn’t swim.

The Judge also pointed to these allegations, as well as Fitzsimmons criminal history.

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In court, it was revealed Fitzsimmons is currently on probation for a DUI, has a non-extraditable warrant in PA for a crime against a person, and two prior convictions, including for burglary in Virginia and Disorderly Conduct in New York.

The Judge denied Fitzsimmons bond as the case and investigation continues.

“He’s not a monster,” said a friend and co-worker of Fitzsimmons who only wanted to be identified as Liz.

Liz attended the bond hearing and spoke outside of the courthouse.

She confirmed Fitzsimmons worked at the jazz club Keystone Korner, which is just across the street from the water where the incident occurred. It’s believed Fitzsimmons had either just started a shift or was working that day.

“On Sunday everyone experienced a loss so I just hope that both parties when it’s time for the big court. I know this is a big press related situation. I just hope everyone remains respectful to both families.”

Fitzsimmons remains in custody until his preliminary hearing.