MONTGOMERY, Ala. — 19-Year-Old Josiah Jhiri Slocum Identified as Victim in Deadly Shooting; Homicide Investigation Underway
A deadly shooting has rocked the Montgomery community, prompting a homicide investigation by the Montgomery Police Department (MPD) following the tragic death of 19-year-old Josiah Jhiri Slocum, who was fatally shot early Saturday morning.
According to a statement released by MPD, officers were dispatched to a local hospital around 2:50 a.m. on Saturday, May 3, after receiving a report of a gunshot victim. Upon their arrival, they learned that the young man had succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival.
The victim was publicly identified on Monday as Josiah Slocum, a 19-year-old resident of Montgomery, whose death has left family, friends, and neighbors in mourning and seeking answers. News of Josiah’s passing has circulated widely on social media, where he is being remembered as a bright, kind-hearted young man with his whole life ahead of him.
Preliminary findings in the investigation indicate that the shooting occurred in the vicinity of Davis Drive, a residential area in Montgomery. However, police have not released further details regarding the circumstances of the shooting, including what may have led up to the violence or who may have been involved.
As of now, no suspects have been named, and no arrests have been made, adding to the heartbreak and uncertainty surrounding Josiah’s untimely death. Investigators are actively working the case, conducting interviews, canvassing the area for potential witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage that may help shed light on what happened.
“We are doing everything in our power to uncover the truth about what happened to Josiah,” said an MPD spokesperson. “This young man’s life was taken far too soon, and we owe it to his family and the Montgomery community to find answers and seek justice.”
The homicide has drawn renewed concern about gun violence among youth in Montgomery and the growing number of families grieving lost loved ones due to senseless shootings. Community leaders and advocates are calling for greater investment in violence prevention programs, youth mentorship, and conflict resolution initiatives.
In the meantime, authorities are urging anyone who may have information about the shooting to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Central Alabama CrimeStoppers by calling 334-215-STOP (7867) or 1-833-AL1-STOP.
As the investigation remains ongoing, friends and loved ones of Josiah Slocum are planning memorial tributes to honor his memory. Vigils and community gatherings are expected in the coming days as the city mourns the loss of yet another young life to gun violence