Justice Delayed but Not Denied in Bessemer Shooting Case

Timothy O'Neal Lacey Jr. (21) has been arrested and charged with murder in the death of James S. Bowen Jr. (21), a shooting that shocked Bessemer last year. The case, under investigation since September 2024, has finally seen progress.

Arrest and Charges

• Lacey was apprehended by the U.S. Marshal’s Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force and is now in Jefferson County Jail.
• Cameron Dermell Smoot (21, Birmingham) was earlier charged with conspiracy to commit murder and released on a $60,000 bond. His case is now with a grand jury.

The Shooting

• When: Around 3:45 p.m. on a Monday.
• Where: A parking lot near the 5900 block of Greenwood Parkway (business name not disclosed).
• Aftermath: Bowen was rushed to UAB Hospital but was pronounced dead at 4:42 p.m.

Community Reaction

• The police have not disclosed a motive for the shooting.
• The community awaits justice as the case continues to unfold.