Birmingham, AL- In a significant breakthrough in an ongoing homicide investigation, the Birmingham Police Department has announced the arrest of a suspect in connection with the fatal shooting of Curtis Jerome Pruitt, who was tragically gunned down on Sunday, July 20, 2025, in the 10 Block of 9th Avenue North. The arrest marks a critical step forward in the pursuit of justice for the victim’s grieving family and the Birmingham community.
Arrest and Charges
Following an intensive investigation led by BPD Homicide detectives, authorities have formally identified and charged Jerome Reese Jr., a 56-year-old Black male from Hueytown, Alabama, in connection with the murder.
On Wednesday, July 23, homicide detectives presented detailed evidence and findings to the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office. After careful review and legal consultation, the District Attorney approved a Capital Murder warrant against Reese.
Later that same day, the BPD Crime Reduction Team (CRT)—a specialized unit focused on apprehending violent offenders—executed a successful operation to locate and arrest Reese. He was taken into custody without incident in the 200 block of 25th Court Northwest, a known residential area in the western section of the city.
Reese has since been booked into the Jefferson County Jail, where he is being held with no bond as he awaits judicial proceedings.
The Homicide: A Life Cut Short
The victim, Curtis Jerome Pruitt, was killed in a shooting that occurred in the early hours of July 20. Police were dispatched to the scene in the 10 block of 9th Avenue North following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers discovered Pruitt suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the efforts of emergency medical personnel, Pruitt was pronounced dead on the scene.
The Birmingham Police Department has not yet released the full details surrounding the motive for the shooting, though officials confirm that the incident was not random and that Reese and Pruitt were believed to be known to one another.
Pruitt’s death sent shockwaves through his community, where he was described by neighbors as quiet, hardworking, and deeply loved by his family and friends. A memorial of candles and flowers has steadily grown at the site of the shooting, with many calling for an end to the escalating gun violence plaguing the area.
Community and Police Response
Birmingham Police Chief Scott Thurmond released a statement commending the department’s quick and coordinated response:
“This arrest is the result of relentless dedication by our homicide detectives and Crime Reduction Team. Our department is committed to holding violent offenders accountable and bringing justice to the families who suffer unimaginable loss. We will not tolerate senseless violence in our city.”
The Birmingham Police Department continues to emphasize the importance of community cooperation in solving violent crimes. Investigators are urging anyone with additional information related to this case—or any other open investigations—to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers or by contacting the BPD Homicide Division directly.
A Call for Peace
The arrest of Jerome Reese Jr. brings a measure of relief, but it also serves as a solemn reminder of the lives torn apart by violent crime. Curtis Jerome Pruitt’s family and friends continue to grieve, hoping that accountability will also bring closure. His death marks yet another tragic entry in a troubling trend of homicides across Birmingham and surrounding Jefferson County neighborhoods.
City leaders and faith-based groups have renewed calls for increased investment in violence prevention programs, youth outreach, and stronger neighborhood engagement in response to the ongoing crisis.
As the investigation continues and legal proceedings move forward, the Birmingham Police Department remains committed to its mission: to protect and serve with integrity, and to ensure that victims like Curtis Jerome Pruitt are never forgotten.
Contact Information
If you have any relevant information about this case, contact the Birmingham Police Department Homicide Division at (205) 254-1764 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. You may remain anonymous.
#JusticeForCurtis #BPD #CrimeReduction #BirminghamPD #StopTheViolence
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