Family grieving second quadruple homicide five months later

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) - Mary Holmes is grieving the loss of her nephew, 39-year-old Stevie McGhee, who was shot and killed outside a family member’s birthday party Saturday night on 27th Street North.

McGhee was one of four, including 56-year-old Angela Weatherspoon, 42-year-old Markeshia Gettings, and 24-year-old Larandus Anderson Jr., who were all gunned down. Birmingham Police say ten other people were injured in this shooting, and so far, there is no one in custody.

For Holmes, this is the second time her family has lost a loved one in a quadruple homicide. On February 16, her son Kevin McGhee and her younger brother’s son Terrell Edwards were murdered in Smithfield. They were shot and killed alongside two other men, Talton Tait and Cortez Ray.

Holmes says this time, it’s her sister who’s dealing with the loss of her oldest son Stevie.

“I was in the bed when I got the call that my nephew had been killed in North Birmingham and I just got there as soon as I could to find him laying out,” said Holmes. “He was laying out in front of the door. I don’t even think he made it in the building.”

She describes seeing her nephew lifeless outside a family member’s birthday party on 27th Street North. Holmes remains strong as they deal with another tragedy five months after losing her son.

“I didn’t think had no idea that we would be doing this five months later,” adds Holmes. “I had no idea. I know God has a plan, and we don’t. I trust him and believe in him, but this has got to stop.”

Holmes says since she lost her son, her nephew Stevie has really stepped up for her

“He was my driver,” says Holmes. “I should’ve called him that day because my niece’s mom had a birthday gathering, and he usually just drove me. I didn’t bother him, but Lord knows I wish I had because if I had, he may still be here.”

Her faith remains strong, but she says this violence has taken a toll on her family, especially her sister.

“She had two sons. They are both deceased. Now she only has a daughter left,” says Holmes. “Everybody loved Stevie; everybody said he was just helpful. He was always trying to do something. He would paint your house with a toothbrush. He would just help you like that.”

Birmingham Police ask anyone with information about Saturday’s shooting to contact them or CrimeStoppers at (205) 254-7777.

Get news alerts in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store or subscribe to our email newsletter here.