Birmingham Man Charged in Deadly Family Shooting Spree and Kidnapping

A Birmingham man, Kerry Jackson Jr., 31, has been charged with multiple serious crimes, including capital murder, following a tragic series of events on August 8th. The incident resulted in the deaths of his grandfather and a family friend, and the injury of two others.

What Happened:
Kerry Jackson Jr. is accused of kidnapping his own mother at gunpoint, forcing her to drive him from one crime scene to another. The violence began at a home on Dennison Avenue, where Jackson Jr. allegedly shot and killed his grandfather, Anthony Jackson, who was 76, and a family friend, Laquitta Charisse Dunn, 49.

How It Unfolded:
The day started with Kerry Jackson Sr. and Bettey Jackson, the suspect's parents, leaving home to get food. While they were away, Jackson Jr.'s grandmother noticed him acting strangely with a gun in hand. Moments later, shots were fired, and Dunn was killed in the kitchen.

When the suspect’s parents returned home, Kerry Jackson Sr. was shot multiple times by his son as he exited the house. Jackson Jr. then forced his mother, Bettey Jackson, to drive him to another location, where more gunshots were heard. Bettey managed to escape and call for help.

Aftermath and Investigation:
Anthony Jackson was found dead, and another woman in her 80s, who was also shot, survived. The police recovered a revolver believed to have been used in the shootings. Jackson Jr. was arrested later that evening after a large search operation.

Court Proceedings:
In court, Detective Kristopher Hatcher shared details of the incident. The judge determined there was enough evidence to move forward with the case. Jackson Jr. remains in custody without bail, and a motive has not yet been confirmed. Family members have mentioned that Jackson Jr. struggled with drug use and possibly mental health issues.