In the early morning hours of January 25, 2025, the life of 25-year-old Hernandis Harmon, a Black male, was tragically cut short in Phenix City, Alabama. Harmon was discovered in the 400 block of Highway 165, having sustained multiple gunshot wounds. First responders pronounced him deceased at the scene, turning a quiet highway into the scene of a homicide investigation.
The Russell County Coroner's office confirmed the cause of death and an autopsy was scheduled with the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences.
The investigation into Harmon's death moved swiftly. The day after the shooting, on January 26, 2025, the Phenix City Police Department announced the arrest of 22-year-old Marquavious Jayquan London. He was taken into custody and charged with capital murder in connection with the fatal shooting. This initial arrest marked a significant breakthrough in the case, but investigators continued to pursue leads suggesting the involvement of others.
Further investigation led authorities to identify two additional suspects, brothers Rufus Alston and Douglas Armour. Warrants were issued for their arrest on charges of capital murder and hindering prosecution. On March 28, 2025, a joint operation involving the Muscogee County Sheriff's Office and the Phenix City Police Department led to the execution of search warrants in Columbus, Georgia. Both Alston and Armour were apprehended without incident. During the arrests, investigators discovered Alston in possession of a modified Glock capable of automatic fire and marijuana. Armour was found with an AK-47 rifle.
The charges against the two brothers were extensive. Alston faced charges of capital murder, hindering prosecution, unlawful possession of firearms, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute. Armour was charged with capital murder, hindering prosecution, hit and run, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Both were booked into the Muscogee County Jail. The case against all three suspects is ongoing.
