In the summer of 2023, a tragedy unfolded in Birmingham, Alabama, that cut short the life of 28-year-old DeForest Chanier Kines Jr. On the morning of Thursday, July 13th, a report of shots fired sent East Precinct officers to the 500 block of Zinnia Lane. Upon their arrival, they discovered a vehicle that had been riddled with bullets. Inside, they found the unresponsive bodies of Kines and another man, 30-year-old Cardarrius Bryant of Fultondale.
Both men were suffering from apparent gunshot wounds and were pronounced deceased at the scene by Birmingham Fire and Rescue personnel.
The incident is being investigated as a double homicide, a stark reflection of the gun violence that has impacted the community. Despite the ongoing investigation by the Birmingham Police Department's Homicide Unit, details surrounding the circumstances that led to the shooting remain limited. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the deaths of Kines and Bryant, and the case has been described as going cold.
In an effort to bring closure to the families and justice for the victims, law enforcement has reached out to the public for assistance. Investigators are urging anyone who may have information related to the case, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward. As the investigation continues, the families and friends of DeForest Kines Jr. and Cardarrius Bryant are left to mourn their profound loss.
