Mother Dying Alongside Her 5-Year-Old Son in Triple Homicide Texted Killer’s Name in Final Moments, Police Say

An Alabama mother and her 5-year-old son tragically lost their lives in a triple homicide last July, with the woman bravely texting the name of the alleged killer just moments before her death. 28-year-old Arkia “Kia” Berry, her son Landyn Brooks, and her boyfriend Eric Ashley Jr., 28, were shot and killed by Jacorrian McGregor, 25, who is now facing a capital murder charge, as per Birmingham police.

Reports from local outlet AL.com reveal that Arkia texted the single word “Jaco” to a friend before her untimely demise, referring to McGregor as her suspected killer. The harrowing incident unfolded in the Echo Highlands neighbourhood of Birmingham when the victims were found dead in a car from gunshot wounds. Investigators later discovered around 20 to 30 shell casings at the crime scene, shedding light on the brutal nature of the crime.

During a recent preliminary hearing, Birmingham homicide Det. Jarvelius Tolliver disclosed vital information linking McGregor to the case. Evidence retrieved from phones belonging to both Arkia and McGregor played a crucial role in connecting the suspect to the triple homicide. Tolliver described the chilling scene within the car, detailing how the victims were positioned before their tragic deaths.

Notably, Arkia’s last act of bravery was to send a text containing McGregor’s nickname just before her demise, aiding detectives in progressing with their investigation. Moreover, phone records indicated that McGregor’s acquaintances advised him to evade law enforcement by laying low and staying out of sight following the shooting. The incident, which occurred on July 13, 2024, prompted an immediate response from Birmingham police upon receiving a distressing 911 call.

McGregor managed to evade authorities for several months following the incident, with his arrest only taking place on Feb. 24 after a concerted effort by the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force. The relationship dynamics between Arkia, Ashley, and McGregor remain unclear as investigators continue to piece together the events leading up to the tragic deaths. Arkia, a dedicated hairstylist, and Landyn, a young football enthusiast, were cherished members of their community, deeply impacting those around them.

Emotions ran high as officer Truman Fitzgerald highlighted the profound impact of such a senseless tragedy, especially considering the involvement of a young child. Authorities expressed their determination to secure justice for the victims and their grieving loved ones, underscoring the urgent need to address escalating violence within the city. As McGregor remains in custody at the Jefferson County Jail without bond, the community remains vigilant, seeking closure and eventual resolution to this heartbreaking case.