BIRMINGHAM, AL – A man has been charged in connection with the fatal shooting of Corey Lavel Tremble, whose body was discovered Thursday in an alleyway in the Ensley neighborhood. The Birmingham Police Department has confirmed that 57-year-old Julius Earl Johnson is now facing multiple felony charges, including murder and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
The deadly incident unfolded in a quiet section of Ensley, where police were called to an alley on Thursday following reports of gunfire. When officers arrived, they discovered 38-year-old Corey Tremble suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite efforts by first responders, Tremble was pronounced dead at the scene.
The case quickly developed with the help of the department’s Crime Reduction Team, which located and arrested Johnson the following day — Friday — in the 2200 block of 47th Street in Ensley, just a short distance from the scene of the crime.
Charges Filed
Johnson has been officially charged with:
- Murder in the death of Corey Lavel Tremble
- Certain persons forbidden to possess a firearm – a charge typically applied to individuals with prior felony convictions or other legal restrictions barring them from owning or carrying a gun
Authorities have not yet released a motive, but the investigation remains active. The Birmingham Police Department is continuing to follow leads and has not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests or charges in connection with the case.
Victim Identified
Corey Lavel Tremble, 38, was known in the community as a kind-hearted man with a tight-knit circle of friends and family. Those who knew him say he had his struggles but had been working toward bettering his life. His sudden and violent death has left many in the Ensley area reeling.
“He didn’t deserve to go out like this,” said one family member. “He had people who loved him. He had kids. This is just senseless.”
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office confirmed his identity late Thursday evening and ruled the cause of death as homicide due to gunshot wounds.
Suspect’s History
While police have not released full details of Julius Earl Johnson’s background, the charge related to firearm possession suggests a criminal history that legally prevented him from owning or carrying a gun. The specifics of his record will likely be revealed as the case proceeds through the judicial system.
Johnson is currently being held in the Jefferson County Jail, and bond details have not yet been made public. His first court appearance is expected within the coming days.
Ongoing Investigation
Birmingham police have emphasized that this investigation is ongoing, and they are encouraging anyone with additional information — particularly those who may have seen or heard anything suspicious around the time of the shooting — to come forward.
Tips can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
Community on Edge
The shooting marks another act of violence in a community already grappling with rising gun crime. Ensley residents have expressed concern about the ongoing safety issues and are calling for greater community engagement and intervention efforts.
“This can’t be the norm,” one neighbor said. “We’re tired of watching people die in our streets. We need solutions. We need peace.”
In Closing
As the legal process begins for Julius Earl Johnson, the family and friends of Corey Lavel Tremble are left to mourn a life cut short far too soon. The case serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing challenges facing communities across Birmingham — and the lives that hang in the balance.
Anyone with knowledge of the case is encouraged to speak out. Justice for Corey begins with truth and accountability.
Rest in peace, Corey Lavel Tremble. May your memory bring strength to those you leave behind.
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