Birmingham Community Reacts to Arrests in Mahaffey Homicide Case
Birmingham, AL – The Birmingham community is still reeling from the tragic death of Cedric Mahaffey, a 29-year-old husband, father, and jeweler, who was shot to death on Saturday, August 20, 2022. Mahaffey was discovered inside a vacant home on Francis Place S.W., after neighbors reported hearing gunshots.
Details of the Incident
Detectives described a grim scene when they arrived. Mahaffey was found in the living room with multiple gunshot wounds, including fatal injuries to both his head and heart. In addition to his injuries, testimony revealed that he also had around a dozen cuts on his arm. Officers at the scene reported that Mahaffey’s white Mercedes Benz was missing, but his cell phone and wallet were still present, providing critical leads for investigators.
Suspects Identified
Recently, progress has been made in the investigation, with two suspects now in custody. Jayveon Khiry Fleming, 20, and Joshua Jermaine Burns, 22, have been charged with capital murder during a robbery. Both were arrested in California in October 2022 and returned to Jefferson County earlier this year to face charges.
Preliminary Hearings and Evidence
Fleming’s preliminary hearing was held on Wednesday, where a detective testified about text messages found on Mahaffey’s phone that ultimately led investigators to Fleming. The messages indicated a planned meeting between Mahaffey and a person interested in purchasing a grill from him—an integral part of his business, Golds by Ced. Detectives tracked the number and found it belonged to Fleming, who had a previous conversation with Mahaffey.
The last text with the address for the Francis Place home was sent just minutes before Mahaffey was shot. In the court hearing, Jefferson County District Judge William Bell ruled that there was enough evidence to forward the case to a grand jury for further consideration.
Friends and Family Speak Out
Mahaffey’s friends and family have shared their heartbreak following his death. Many believe he was set up for a robbery due to the nature of his business, where he often traveled to meet clients for fittings or deliveries.
A Chilling Discovery
Detective Marcus Whitson disclosed additional evidence during the hearing. After Mahaffey’s car was recovered in Sunnyvale, California, a witness reported that Fleming, Burns, and another individual had been staying with her. She became concerned for her children’s safety and eventually asked the trio to leave. Evidence found in Mahaffey’s vehicle included fingerprints of Fleming and Burns, along with personal items belonging to Fleming. McCann, another individual linked to the case, claimed that Burns confessed to her about shooting Mahaffey under Fleming’s instructions.
Legal Proceedings Continue
Both Fleming and Burns remain jailed without bond as the investigation progresses. They have yet to be tried, and no murder weapon has been recovered. As the legal process unfolds, the community waits for justice for Cedric Mahaffey, as well as answers about the circumstances surrounding his untimely death.
Community Support
The loss of Mahaffey, known for his vibrant personality and dedication to his craft, has deeply affected many in the Birmingham area. Community members have come together to rally support for Mahaffey’s family, ensuring that his legacy as a family man and skilled jeweler is remembered.
