Naked Man Shot And Killed During Strange Chain Of Early Morning Events

PELHAM, ALABAMA — A man was fatally shot early Tuesday morning in Pelham. Police were dispatched to a reported stabbing at 236 Camellia Drive just after 12:30 a.m., and shortly thereafter to a reported shooting at 321 Honeysuckle Lane.

The stabbing victim was located at the home on Camellia Drive and is believed to have non-life-threatening injuries. About 500 yards away, the stabbing suspect was found dead at the home on Honeysuckle Lane, after an occupant of the home shot him.

Police Chief Pat Cheatwood held a press conference for members of the local media on Tuesday morning. During his statement and his response to reporter’s questions the following information was provided. Investigators have determined that Carlton James Brown, 29, was responsible for the stabbing, which occurred in his residence. Following the stabbing, he began going through the Windstone neighborhood “in an excited state” ringing doorbells and banging on doors.  

When he reached the Honeysuckle Lane address, the homeowner opened the door and a struggle ensued. The homeowner then shot and killed Brown, who was not wearing any clothes at the time of the incident, despite the frigid nighttime temperatures.

Chief Cheatwood confirmed that an off-duty law enforcement officer lived in the home where the shooting occurred; however, he did not say what agency the officer was affiliated with or if the officer was the one who answered the door, got into the struggle and fired the fatal shot.

Investigators do not yet have a motive for Brown’s actions, and the shooting is currently being considered as an act of self-defense. The case will be turned over the the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office for review, which is customary in such matters.