Close Up Shot Focused on Yellow Tape Showing Text Police Line Do Not Cross. Restricted Area of a Crime Scene. Bokeh Background with Flickering Siren Lights. Forensics Team Working on a Case
The Northport community is reeling after Dashun Witherspoon, 28, of Tuscaloosa, was tragically shot and killed on the evening of July 2, 2025. The Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit and Northport Police responded to the 11400 block of Fairwood Avenue in the Huntington Place area following reports of a shooting. Upon arrival around 7:42 p.m., they discovered Witherspoon suffering from multiple gunshot wounds inside a vehicle. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he later died. (wbrc.com)
Authorities quickly identified 47-year-old Joyce Reed, also of Tuscaloosa County, as the suspect. Investigators report that Reed and Witherspoon knew each other and had engaged in a disagreement earlier that evening. According to the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit, Reed was standing outside her car when she shot Witherspoon, who was still seated inside. No weapon was found on Witherspoon or within the vehicle. (wvtm13.com)
Reed was arrested and charged with capital murder, a charge she faces without bond from the Tuscaloosa County Jail. Investigators continue to probe the exact nature of the dispute that led to the shooting. (abc3340.com) Witnesses at the scene corroborated authorities’ accounts, stating that Witherspoon was unarmed and that Reed fired multiple shots from outside the car.
Community Reactions and Ongoing Investigation
News of Witherspoon’s death has devastated family, friends, and neighbors. Residents of Huntington Place described him as a kind, unassuming figure whose life was unjustly ended. The unexpected violence has left a deep sense of shock in a community where such fatalities are rare.
Local law enforcement officials have urged anyone with additional information to contact the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit to aid in the ongoing investigation. Meanwhile, the Northport Police Department has reaffirmed its commitment to public safety and pledged to support Witherspoon’s grieving loved ones.
Legal Consequences Ahead
Capital murder is the most serious homicide charge in Alabama and may result in life imprisonment or the death penalty if proven. Reed will remain in custody pending further legal proceedings. Authorities are gathering extensive evidence, including ballistic reports, witness statements, and possible surveillance footage, to fully reconstruct the events that led to the shooting.
A Community in Mourning
As the investigation progresses, residents are grappling with sorrow and uncertainty. But amidst the pain, the community is already beginning to come together to honor Witherspoon’s memory. Friends and family have started sharing memories and stories that paint a picture of a man whose presence was quiet but significant—someone who shared laughs, lent support, and fostered goodwill.
As details emerge, one fact remains clear: a life full of promise has been cut short by senseless violence. With the legal process underway, much attention now turns to press coverage and court hearings as the community seeks truth, justice, and a path to healing.
A vigil is being planned in the coming days to remember Dashun Witherspoon. In the meantime, those who knew him continue to share condolences, memories, and calls for peace in a town shaken by loss.
