Homewood Police Detain Protesters Blocking Traffic During Jabari Peoples Demonstration

Community Rallies for Justice in Homewood Protest

Four individuals were arrested during a protest in Homewood, Alabama, where demonstrators blocked traffic to demand justice for Jabari Peoples, who was fatally shot in a park on June 23. The protest took place at the Circle K located at the intersection of Lakeshore Drive and Greensprings Highway, a location chosen strategically by the community to draw attention to their cause.

The protesters gathered under the banner of “Justice for Jabari,” calling for the release of bodycam footage from the night of the shooting. They aimed to make their message heard by disrupting daily routines, such as refueling at the gas station. Zhia Kiez, Jabari’s cousin, explained the choice of location, stating, "You stop here because you're almost on E, now you can't get no gas and now you hear the message that's being proclaimed. You ignored us any other time, we want to make sure you hear his name."

Eric Hall, co-founder of Black Lives Matter Birmingham, highlighted the intent behind the protest. He said, "We decided to block the pumps intentionally, to disrupt the money flow at the Circle K." WVTM 13 captured footage of the event, showing protesters moving onto the road and temporarily halting vehicle traffic.

Homewood police arrived at the scene, leading to the arrest of several individuals. Hall criticized the police response, noting, "I've seen as it relates to the arrests that were made tonight was a target on black women. There were plenty of people in the streets." He also mentioned that legal observers were present and assured that the four arrested individuals would be bailed out. WVTM 13 is still seeking confirmation from the police department regarding the charges against them.

Hall emphasized that the protests would continue, stating, "Circle K was just one; there will be others to come, and I want to be clear when I say that." Kiez echoed this sentiment, expressing the family's determination to keep protesting until they see the video footage, saying, "I can't move on with my life until we get some type of justice."

What We Know About Jabari Peoples' Death

Jabari Peoples was shot and killed at a park in Homewood on the night of June 23. According to police, a gun was involved in the incident, while the family claims he was unarmed. The community and family are demanding the release of bodycam footage, which is currently part of the investigation according to ALEA.

The family has filed a petition to compel the City of Homewood to release the bodycam footage. As of July 11, the city’s response had not been released. The family has until July 18 to respond to the city, with a hearing scheduled for August 4.

In addition, the family is considering a potential wrongful death and civil rights lawsuit. They have also released findings from an independent autopsy, which revealed that Jabari was shot in the back with no exit wound or bullet found. However, without video evidence, this information does not conclusively prove either side’s claims.

This story is developing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Stay informed with the latest news through the WVTM 13 app.