Justice for Jabari Peoples

The Night the Truth Was Shot: What Really Happened?

On June 23, 2025, a night that began like any other in Homewood, Alabama, descended into an unimaginable tragedy. Jabari Peoples, an 18-year-old with his whole life ahead, was in his parked car when he was approached by Homewood Police officers.

The Official Narrative vs. The Eyewitness Truth:

Police statements claim officers initiated the encounter due to the "smell of marijuana." They then allege that during the stop, Jabari reached for a weapon, leading to the fatal shooting.

However, this narrative is starkly contradicted by multiple, courageous eyewitnesses who were present at the scene. These individuals have come forward, stating unequivocally that Jabari was unarmed and was shot in the back. This critical detail raises grave questions about the officers' claims and the necessity of the lethal force used.

The Withheld Footage: A Barrier to Justice

In an era where police accountability is paramount, body-camera footage is essential for uncovering the truth. Yet, Homewood authorities have steadfastly refused to release the full bodycam video of the incident. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), now in possession of the footage, cites Alabama’s highly restrictive laws on public access to police records, effectively using legislation to shield potential misconduct from public view.

This refusal is not just an obstruction of justice; it's a profound insult to Jabari’s grieving family and a disservice to the entire community. Without the full, unedited footage, the official narrative stands unchallenged by objective evidence, leaving a vacuum filled with suspicion and mistrust.

Timeline of a Tragedy (June 23, 2025):

• Evening: Jabari Peoples is in his parked car in Homewood, Alabama.

• [Specific Time, if known]: Homewood Police officers initiate contact with Jabari.

• [Specific Time, if known]: Shots are fired. Jabari is fatally wounded.

• Immediate Aftermath: Eyewitnesses begin to share their accounts: Jabari was unarmed, shot in the back.

• Following Days: The Homewood Police Department refers the investigation to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).

• Ongoing: ALEA actively withholds all bodycam footage, citing state law and an "active investigation."

The truth about what happened to Jabari Peoples cannot remain hidden. His life deserves more than a convenient narrative; it demands justice and full transparency.

Our Demands: Join the Fight for Justice!

The tragic and unjust death of Jabari Peoples demands a clear and powerful response. We, his family, friends, and community, are united in our unwavering pursuit of truth and accountability. We call upon all concerned citizens, civil rights advocates, and elected officials to join us in demanding the following:

1. Full and Immediate Release of All Body Camera Footage:

   • Why This Matters: Transparency is the bedrock of justice. The withholding of critical bodycam footage only fuels suspicion and erodes public trust. The community has an absolute right to see the events as they unfolded, without selective editing or suppression.

2. An Independent Federal Investigation:

   • Why This Matters: Given the stark discrepancies between the official police account and compelling eyewitness testimony, an impartial investigation free from local influence is crucial. A federal investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice or the FBI is necessary to ensure a fair and thorough review of all evidence and circumstances surrounding Jabari’s death.

3. Suspension of Officer(s) Involved Pending Investigation:

   • Why This Matters: For the integrity of the investigation and to ensure public safety and trust, any officer involved in the shooting of Jabari Peoples must be immediately suspended from duty, without pay, until the independent investigation is concluded and findings are released. This is standard protocol in cases of alleged misconduct and excessive force.