In the small community of Quinton, Alabama, the life of 32-year-old Matthew Douglas Perrigin, a White male, was tragically cut short on Thursday, January 19, 2023. The incident unfolded on Hill Drive, where an attempted vehicle robbery escalated into a triple shooting, leaving Perrigin fatally wounded. Two other individuals were also injured in the attack; one sustained life-threatening injuries but was later reported to be in stable condition, while the other was treated at a hospital and
subsequently released.
The Walker County Sheriff's Office launched an immediate and intensive investigation, quickly identifying two suspects: Corey Ryan Mahaffey, 36, and his 16-year-old son, Kaison Ryan Mahaffey. A manhunt ensued, spanning two days and involving multiple law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Fugitive Task Force and aviation units from several counties. The search for the father and son was aided by witnesses at the scene who provided crucial information that led to their identification.
The younger Mahaffey, Kaison, was apprehended in the Empire community following information received by the Sheriff's Office. His father, Corey, was captured in Hartselle after hours of negotiation. Following their arrests, the father and son were charged with capital murder during a robbery, capital murder for aiding and abetting, and two counts of first-degree assault. They are both being held in the Walker County Jail on a $1 million cash bond for each charge. It was also revealed that Kaison Mahaffey was already wanted on attempted murder charges in Blount County for a separate shooting incident that occurred weeks prior.
In the wake of this violent act, Matthew Perrigin was remembered by his community as a father, son, and brother with a big heart who was actively working to rebuild his life. A candlelight vigil and balloon release were held at Dora High School, his alma mater, where friends and family gathered to mourn his loss and speak out against violence. Perrigin's father expressed his family's deep appreciation for the diligent work of the Sheriff's Office in bringing the suspects into custody. The case against Corey and Kaison Mahaffey will proceed through the justice system, with the younger Mahaffey set to be charged as an adult.
