Maurice Arrinjuando Turner, a 52-year-old Black man, was a father, a brother, and a friend known for bringing people together. His loved ones described him as a light who was funny, outgoing, and never met a stranger. A father to two daughters and a son, he was big on family, living by the motto "NBF," which stood for "Nothing But Family." A close friend recalled how he was honest and could brighten up any room, leaving people with a smile.
In the early morning hours of July 17, 2024,
Mr. Turner was in the kitchen of his apartment on Jasper Road in Birmingham, Alabama’s College Hills community. According to his family, the incident began with a knock on the door. Before he could answer, someone opened fire with what his family believes was an automatic weapon, shooting directly through the back door. A shot spotter alert registered 10 rounds fired. Mr. Turner was struck by the gunfire. His roommate, who was home at the time, heard sounds like fireworks and went to investigate, finding Mr. Turner on the floor. First responders were called, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Mr. Turner’s death left his family and community devastated and searching for answers. A week after the shooting, dozens of people gathered for a candlelight vigil and balloon release outside his home to find comfort and support one another. In the following weeks, Birmingham police released surveillance video of a suspect’s SUV speeding away from the scene and asked the public for help. Crime Stoppers offered a reward of up to $5,000 for information, and a close friend of Mr. Turner’s personally pledged an additional $1,000.
The investigation continued for several months before a breakthrough led to the identification of a suspect. Authorities arrested Christopher Birl and charged him with capital murder in the death of Maurice Turner.
In June 2026, a grand jury indicted Christopher Birl for the murder. As of that month, the case was proceeding through the court system.
