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Birmingham Man Charged with Capital Murder in Shooting

An urban neighborhood in Birmingham highlighting community safety efforts.

News Summary

Demetrius Lamont Henry, a 22-year-old from Birmingham, has been charged with capital murder following the shooting death of 42-year-old Stephen Kemp. The incident, which occurred during a robbery on April 1, 2025, has raised concerns over public safety in the city. Police arrested Henry days later, highlighting ongoing issues with violent crime in Birmingham and the community’s need for enhanced safety measures.

Birmingham Man Charged with Capital Murder in Shooting Death of Stephen Kemp

Birmingham, AL — Demetrius Lamont Henry, a 22-year-old resident of Birmingham, has been charged with capital murder in the shooting death of 42-year-old Stephen Foster Kemp. This incident, which raises concerns regarding public safety and crime rates in the city, occurred in the 1100 block of Avenue F on April 1, 2025.

Birmingham Police were dispatched to the scene around 7 p.m. following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers discovered Kemp inside a vehicle that had been struck by bullets. He was subsequently rushed to UAB Hospital by the Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service. Unfortunately, Kemp was pronounced dead shortly after midnight on April 2, 2025.

According to police reports, Kemp’s death occurred during what has been described as a robbery, although specific details regarding the circumstances of the crime have not been publicly disclosed. This lack of information highlights a growing concern among local residents about the transparency of ongoing investigations, and the overall impact of violent crime on community well-being.

Arrest and Charges

Demetrius Henry was apprehended on April 3, 2025, at an apartment complex on Beacon Parkway by Birmingham’s Crime Reduction Team and Tactical Unit. Following the collection of evidence and intelligence, a warrant for capital murder (robbery) was issued against him. He was booked into the Jefferson County Jail on April 4, 2025, at 8:28 p.m., and is currently being held without bond, reflecting the severity of the charges he faces.

Community Impact

This incident has brought to the forefront issues of public safety and crime prevention in Birmingham. The community is increasingly concerned about the rise in violence and its potential effects on local businesses and residents. Crime statistics indicate a troubling trend, with recent data suggesting an uptick in violent offenses in certain neighborhoods of the city.

Local experts have noted that such incidents can lead to broader implications for community trust in law enforcement and can deter economic investment. Experts suggest that addressing crime requires not only policing but also community engagement and support programs aimed at reducing the socio-economic factors that often contribute to criminal behavior.

Ongoing Law Enforcement Responses

Birmingham’s law enforcement agencies have been actively working to combat rising crime rates through strategic initiatives, including community policing and collaboration with local organizations. The Birmingham Police Department continues to stress the importance of public involvement in reporting suspicious activities, as community engagement plays a crucial role in successful crime prevention efforts.

As this case unfolds, the implications of Henry’s charge will likely resonate within the community. A concerted effort by local authorities to enhance safety measures, alongside community resilience initiatives, may be necessary to foster a safer Birmingham moving forward.