In the summer of 2017, the life of 27-year-old Brenton C. Gatlin, a male resident of Athens, Alabama, was tragically cut short in what began as a scheme among acquaintances. On the night of July 25th, Gatlin was lured to a home on Horton Street under the pretense of friendship, unaware of the violent plot that awaited him. The plan, conceived by three individuals he knew, was to rob him of several hundred dollars from his tax refund.
Inside the residence, the situation escalated
dramatically. Marty Gene Stafford, one of the conspirators, produced a firearm. During the course of the robbery, Stafford shot Gatlin once. Emergency services were called to the scene shortly before 10:00 p.m., and first responders found Gatlin gravely wounded. He was immediately transported to Athens Limestone Hospital, but succumbed to his injuries and passed away. The initial investigation suggested that the motive was a robbery that had turned fatal.
The Athens Police Department quickly launched an investigation into the shooting. Their efforts led to the swift apprehension of three suspects: Kandes Elizabeth Lambert, 27, who resided at the Horton Street home; Terry Dale Amerson, 22; and Marty Stafford, 28. All three were known to the victim. They were subsequently charged with capital murder and first-degree robbery. The investigation revealed that Lambert had been with Gatlin, driving around the county, while Amerson and Stafford lay in wait at her house to execute their plan.
The legal process unfolded over the next few years. Marty Stafford, the shooter, was the first to face a jury. He was convicted of felony murder and received a sentence of life in prison. Kandes Lambert and Terry Amerson were tried separately. In March 2021, Lambert was convicted for her role in the crime. The following month, a jury found Amerson guilty as well. In June 2021, both Lambert and Amerson were sentenced to 30 years in prison, bringing a close to the case and serving justice for the senseless murder of Brenton Gatlin.
