On a chaotic evening in Birmingham, Alabama, a dispute at an illegal drag race turned deadly, claiming the life of one of its organizers, Anthony Edward Lett. The 36-year-old man was fatally shot on January 13, 2008, amidst a confrontation that erupted following the death of another individual, Lonnie King, at the same event held on Republic Boulevard near Avenue W in the Pratt community.
At the time of the shooting, Lett was in possession of $20,000 in purse money from the race.
The events of that day led to an investigation that ultimately pointed to Ladipo Chad Bethea of Gretna, Florida. In May 2013, Bethea was convicted of capital murder for his role in the death of Anthony Edward Lett. The conviction brought a measure of resolution to a case that began with violence and tragedy at a clandestine street race.
