Birmingham Woman’s Hearing Concludes in 2018 Stabbing Case

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Birmingham Woman’s Hearing Concludes in 2018 Stabbing Case

The latest development in Birmingham’s high-profile murder case has emerged as the accused, a 56-year old woman named Kuterah Benita Rich, was sentenced to prison over her former boyfriend’s fatal stabbing in 2018. Rich had previously pled guilty to a reduced charge of manslaughter relating to the death of Antonio Pettaway in late 2023.

The Sentence

Jefferson County Circuit Judge Alaric May sentenced Rich to a 20-year prison stretch on Tuesday, with a mandatory minimum of five years to be served. Rich, up until her sentencing, was free on bond but was subsequently taken into custody at Jefferson County Jail.

The Incident

On the evening of September 2, 2018, North Precinct officers arrived at 2525 37th Avenue North, following reports of a person being stabbed. Upon their arrival, Pettaway was discovered with at least one stab wound, which subsequently led to his death at UAB Hospital. According to the accounts by the victim’s family and friends, Rich and Pettaway had a romantic relationship that lasted for over six years before the tragic incident.

About Antonio Pettaway

Fondly remembered in the community, Antonio Pettaway was a Birmingham native, a loving father to three sons, and known as a brother, uncle, and cousin within his extended family. He was quite popular amongst his friends for his love for barbecuing and his sense of humor. Pettaway’s sudden and untimely death sent shockwaves into a community where he was deeply embedded and respected.

Public Reaction and Conclusion

As the news of Rich’s sentencing spread, diverse reactions stemmed from different corners of their common friends and the larger Birmingham community. While some showed their support for the legal decision, others shared their heartfelt memories of Pettaway. Despite the varied reactions, all mourned the loss of a beloved community member and hoped for healing and closure for Pettaway’s family.

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