Authorities have released the name of a woman found dead in her Jefferson County home in an apparent domestic shooting.
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Lakechia Rena Bryant. The 46-year-old mother and grandmother was affectionately known as Keedy.
The suspect in her slaying – her boyfriend – was shot hours later following a police chase with shots fired that ended in Graysville. His identity and condition have not yet been released, but authorities said he was alert and talking.
Bryant’s body was discovered about 10:30 a.m. Thursday after family became concerned because they had not heard from her since at least Wednesday. The victim lived in the 200 block of Second Avenue.
Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Henry Irby said forced entry was made into the home and Bryant as found unresponsive inside.
She was pronounced dead at the scene at 11:18 a.m. from a gunshot wound. Authorities said it wasn’t immediately clear when the deadly shooting took place.
A lookout bulletin for a potential suspect in a white Cadillac was quickly broadcast on area law enforcement police radios.
Adamsville Police Chief Chris Robinson said his office was notified about 1 p.m. to assist in located the suspect who was believed to be in Adamsville.
Officers spotted the suspect’s vehicle and tried to stop him, but he fled.
After a short chase, officers deployed spike strips, which deflated the suspect’s tires.
He continued fleeing at low speeds and began firing at Adamsville officers. Police returned fire.
The suspect crashed his car at the corner of Cherry Avenue and Glasgow Hollow Road in Graysville, just off Interstate 22.
Officers rendered aid until Adamsville fire medics arrived on the scene. RPS transported him to UAB Hospital in Birmingham.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is investigating Bryant’s homicide.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is investigating the officer-involved shooting at the request of Robinson.
