In the summer of 2025, a dispute over a stolen cell phone tragically escalated, leading to the death of 32-year-old Eric Major in Montgomery, Alabama. The incident, which cut short the life of a man described by his family as smart, athletic, and always willing to help, unfolded on July 16, 2025, on the 2300 block of East 6th Street.
According to his sister, Eric Major had gone to retrieve his phone from an individual who had allegedly taken it.
An argument ensued, which tragically culminated in gunfire, ending Major's life. The sudden and violent loss left his family grieving and searching for answers. His sister recalled that his birthday was only a few days after he was killed, compounding the family's pain. She also mentioned that while her brother had a troubled past for which he had served his time, he was a good person who was often found with his computer or laptop.
For four months, the family waited for a breakthrough in the case. In November 2025, their pursuit of justice saw a significant development with the arrest of Lequinton Smith. Smith, who was 37 years old at the time of the incident, was taken into custody and subsequently charged with murder and attempted murder in connection with Eric Major's death.
The arrest brought a measure of relief to Major's family, who expressed their hope that the person responsible for his death would be held accountable. His sister lamented that the fatal confrontation could have been easily avoided, stating that the suspect, being older, could have acted as a 'big brother' and simply returned the phone. Instead, a senseless act of violence left a family mourning and a community searching for an end to such tragedies.
