Birmingham Community Grieves as Suspect Pleads Guilty in Shooting Case
On Monday, the community of Birmingham received some closure regarding the tragic shooting death of 29-year-old Thomas Bostany. The suspect, Samuel Edward Wiggins IV, 27, has pleaded guilty to a charge of murder in connection with the incident that rocked the local area on September 30, 2023.
Incident Overview
The fateful event occurred in the parking lot of the Mountainside Apartments on Penthouse Drive. According to reports from the Birmingham police, at approximately 4:12 p.m. on that Saturday, officers were dispatched to investigate a report of an unresponsive individual in the vehicle.
Upon arrival, officers discovered Bostany slumped inside his car. Tragically, Birmingham Fire and Rescue announced that he had succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. It was later revealed that Bostany had been shot 13 times.
Legal Proceedings
Wiggins was apprehended at the scene of the crime and faced initial charges of capital murder. However, in a recent legal development, he entered a guilty plea to a lesser charge of murder. The Jefferson County Circuit judge, Michael Streety, has scheduled Wiggins’ sentencing for January 6, 2024.
Bostany’s mother, Connie Bostany, expressed her feelings on the slow-moving legal process, stating, “The wheels of justice are very slow, but this time justice is being served.” Her words reflect the sentiments of many community members who have been anxiously awaiting justice for Thomas.
Remembering Thomas Bostany
Thomas Bostany was not just a victim of violence; he was a dedicated individual with a bright future ahead. An accomplished graduate of Spain Park High School and the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Bostany earned a degree in mechanical engineering. His commitment to education also led him to work as a graduate teaching assistant at UAB for over two years.
Professionally, he served as a full-time Research & Development Technician with voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak, contributing his skills not only in the United States but also collaborating with engineers in Austria.
Bostany was deeply passionate about outdoor activities and sports. According to his obituary, he was an Eagle Scout who excelled in athletics, particularly wrestling, where he had a standout career at Spain Park High. He achieved multiple accolades including school records for most wins, most pins, and most tech falls during his four years on the team.
A Community in Mourning
The shooting has left a mark on the Birmingham community, as friends, family, and residents reflect on the life of a young man taken too soon. News of Thomas’s untimely death has stirred conversations about safety and the impact of violence in the area, reminding everyone of the preciousness of life and the urgent need for preventative measures.
As the community awaits Wiggins’ sentencing, many hold out hope that justice will bring some measure of comfort to those grieving the loss of a beloved son, friend, and community member.
The news continues to evolve, and as the legal matters unfold, the Birmingham community stands together in memory of Thomas Bostany, advocating for peace and reflection amidst the sorrow.
