An Alabama woman tragically lost her life in a triple homicide, but not before sending a text that named her alleged killer moments before her death. The suspect, 25-year-old Jacorrian McGregor, now faces a capital murder charge connected to the deaths of 28-year-old Arkia “Kia” Berry, her 5-year-old son Landyn Brooks, and her boyfriend Eric Ashley Jr., who was also 28.
Authorities allege that McGregor shot all three victims while they were inside a car last year. According to local reports, Arkia sent a message to a friend with the name “Jaco,” which is McGregor’s nickname, just moments before the tragic event.
In July 2024, police responded to a 911 call about a car accident in Birmingham’s Echo Highlands neighborhood. Upon arrival, they found the three victims dead from gunshot wounds inside the vehicle. Arkia was discovered lying across the center console, and a significant number of shell casings were found at the scene.
During a preliminary hearing, Birmingham homicide Detective Jarvelius Tolliver indicated that phone evidence helped investigators connect McGregor to the incident. He shared details about how the victims died, including the positions of their bodies in the vehicle.
Before the shooting, Arkia had been driving, with her son in the back seat and her boyfriend in the front. The investigation revealed that there had been communication among McGregor’s friends warning him to stay hidden in the aftermath of the shooting.
Adding to the complexity of the case, police are also looking into the theft of a green Kia that was seen near the victims’ vehicle. The shooting occurred on July 13, 2024, and police began receiving tips shortly after.
McGregor was not arrested until February 24, with help from the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force. Details about the relationships among Arkia, McGregor, and Ashley remain unclear.
Arkia was known to be a hairstylist, while her son Landyn was an active child who was excited to start kindergarten in the fall. Family members described the bond between mother and son as incredibly close, with Arkia dedicated to giving Landyn everything he needed.
An officer remarked on the profound impact of the case, particularly the involvement of a young child who was caught in the violence affecting the community. McGregor is currently being held without bond at the Jefferson County Jail, as the legal proceedings continue.
