Maryland Teen Sentenced to 20 Years for Fatally Shooting 14-Year-Old Friend After Halloween Party Dispute
ABERDEEN, MARYLAND — A Maryland teenager convicted in the fatal shooting of his 14-year-old friend during a Halloween party has been sentenced to 20 years in prison, according to Harford County court officials.
Prosecutors said Kevin Kinsey Jr., who was 16 at the time, shot and killed Jai’den Winchester during an argument outside a party in November 2024. Around 11:50 p.m., police responded to the 200 block of Center Deen Avenue in Aberdeen, where they found Winchester unresponsive from a gunshot wound to the head. The teen was a student and football player at Havre De Grace High School.
Halloween Party Turns Deadly
According to court documents, the homeowner had asked everyone to leave the party just before the shooting occurred. A group of six teens, including Kinsey and Winchester, left together and got into a car.
Witnesses told police that Winchester made a remark that angered Kinsey, who allegedly responded, “Stop playing with me, I’ll blow you,” before pulling the trigger.
Winchester was pronounced dead shortly after officers arrived at the scene. Investigators later confirmed that the firearm used in the shooting belonged to Kinsey’s father.
Conviction and Sentencing
Kinsey was charged as an adult and found guilty of second-degree murder and use of a firearm in a felony. A judge sentenced him to 20 years in prison, ruling he will be eligible for parole after serving 10 years.
After the shooting, Kinsey fled but returned shortly after, reportedly telling others he hadn’t meant to fire the gun. Police records show he later told investigators, “I’m scared. I don’t want to go to jail.”
Community Impact and Reaction
The tragic case has deeply affected the Aberdeen and Havre De Grace communities, where both teens were known to attend school and local events. Parents and community members have since expressed concerns about teen gun access and party safety, urging better awareness of firearm storage laws.
Officials said the case serves as a reminder of the deadly consequences of youth gun violence and the importance of responsible gun ownership.
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