Brandon Nation: Two suspects arrested as Alabama boy, 5, shot dead while getting a haircut
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
BESSEMER, ALABAMA: A 5-year-old boy was killed in a hail of gunfire while he was getting a haircut inside a home in Bessemer on January 7, as per Alabama police. In a new development, two suspects have reportedly been arrested in connection with the case while a third is still at large.
The shooting occurred at about 10 am on Sunday, January 7, in Bessemer. The child was identified as Brandon Jamal Nation, III, of Fairfield according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s office
What happened to Brandon Nation?
Brandon was with his mother getting his hair cut near the 500 block of Seventh Avenue North in Bessemer, Alabama, on Sunday morning when shots were fired at the house, Bessemer police say, according to ABC News.
"We know someone not at the house shot towards the house,’’ Det. Justin Burmeister said on Monday, January 8.
After being taken to Children’s of Alabama, Brandon was pronounced dead two hours later, according to the police. The barber, an adult male, was also shot, although he survived but is in a critical condition at UAB Hospital.
“It’s terrible,’’ Burmeister said and added, “Our thoughts are with the family during this incredibly challenging time.”
Who is accused of killing Brandon Nation?
According to WMBA, 26-years-old Kendrick O'Neal, and Tatyonna Estacia Smith, have both been charged in connection with the boy's death.
O'Neal and Smith are accused of capital murder of a person under the age of fourteen, attempted murder, and capital murder conducted from outside a residence, according to documents from the Jefferson County Jail. It's not immediately apparent if any person has gotten legal representation or has pleaded guilty to the allegations.
WBMA reports that Kedarrius Odell Mack, 25, is wanted on the same charges but has not been located.
Additionally, anyone with information is requested to call Bessemer police at tel: 205-481-4366, tel:425-2411, or the tip line at tel:205-428-3541.
