A small community in West Blocton, Alabama, located approximately 40 miles southwest of Birmingham, is in shock after a shooting that left five people dead, including four children. Authorities have charged 32-year-old Brandon Kendrick with five counts of capital murder following the incident on Thursday evening, July 18, 2024.
Bibb County Sheriff Jody Wade confirmed that the victims were Kendrick’s wife, 24-year-old Kelsey Kendrick, and four children, ages two, six, six, and nine. According to a local media source, each victim was shot in the head with a handgun.
The 911 call came in around 10 p.m. from a residence on Greentree Drive, “I know several of the officers who were on the scene last night who told me this morning it was the most horrible thing they had seen in their careers,” Sheriff Wade stated in an interview with WBRC.
Six Bibb County Sheriff and state law enforcement vehicles arrived quickly. Despite the swift response, the victims were all pronounced dead at the scene.
Sheriff Wade expressed the community’s shock and grief: “We’re keeping everyone in our prayers, including their family, friends, and neighbors. It’s a devastating loss, particularly when it is close to home.”
Brandon Kendrick, who is the father of two of the children, was taken into custody at the scene without incident. The two other children were relatives visiting at the time of the incident. “I am not aware of any motive. I can’t think of the motive that justifies his actions,” Sheriff Wade added.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) has taken over the case, with Kendrick being held in the Bibb County Jail without bond. “Our church community is deeply saddened for everyone affected and is praying for our pastor and his family,” stated Pastor Allan Kendrick of Oasis Church in Bessemer, who is related to the accused.
This event has left the tight-knit community in shock. Neighbors and friends have expressed their disbelief, noting that such violence is unheard of in their quiet area. The community is coming together to support one another after this incident.
Bibb County Sheriff’s Office and ALEA continue their investigation to uncover the incident’s circumstances. Sheriff Wade and his team are working tirelessly to provide answers and support to the affected families.