From The Tribune staff reports
BIRMINGHAM — Two people were arrested for the murder of a sleeping 12-year-old in a drive-by shooting that occurred on Wednesday, Dec. 21, at approximately 1:51 a.m., in the 500 block of 16th Avenue Northwest in Birmingham.
According to the Birmingham Police Department (BPD), Ja’Von Eric Wilson, 19, of Birmingham, and Ja’Rei Lamar Vance, 18, of Birmingham, were arrested for the murder of 12-year-old Audriana Pearson, who was killed while sleeping.
“On Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022, Birmingham Police officers and detectives were able to identify a suspect vehicle through investigative leads and the use of the Real Time Crime Center,” Sergeant Monica Law stated. “A vehicle pursuit spanned several miles before coming to stop at Avenue V and 18th Street Ensley.”
Three individuals were taken into custody without incident and placed on an investigative hold. The vehicle used in the pursuit had been stolen from another jurisdiction.
“Birmingham Police Detectives presented information on the case to Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office,” Law stated. “After an assessment of the information, detectives obtained warrants for capital murder for both Wilson and Vance. Detectives also obtained a warrant for receiving stolen property 1st degree for Wilson.”
Both are in the custody of Jefferson County Jail without bond.
Related Story: 12-year-old killed while asleep during drive-by shooting in Birmingham
On Wednesday, Dec. 21, Birmingham Police officers were dispatched to the area on a report of a person shot.
“Upon arrival, officers encountered family members who stated that a 12-year-old child was sleeping in bed and had been struck by gunfire,” BPD Sergeant Monica Law said.
Birmingham Fire Rescue arrived to the scene and pronounced Pearson dead.
“At this time, we do believe that this is a result of a drive-by shooting,” Law said.
The Birmingham Police Department is investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
“The inability to control one’s anger and have peaceful conflict management continues to plague our city,” Law stated in a press release. “Families are left hurting, angry, and suffering at the hands of others, and we are tired of our communities being ravaged by senseless murder.
“No family deserves to face the murder of a loved one, especially when the victim is a child who should have had many more years ahead to learn and grow; children deserve to be safe at home with their families and enjoying the holiday season. They do not deserve to be gunned down while at home, where they expect comfort and safety.
“Detectives will work to gather any information they can; however, our best work is when we work together to bring those to justice who harm our children.”
The story will be updated when more information is available.