Arrest made after father killed in front of his wife at Sumiton shopping center

A suspect is in custody following the tragic shooting death of a husband and father in Sumiton last week. Authorities announced on Sunday that Timothy Braden Crawford has been charged with murder in the death of 46-year-old Stephen Justus “Fro” Morrow.

A Heartbreaking Loss

The fatal encounter occurred just before 9 p.m. last Wednesday in the parking lot of a shopping complex near the Walmart located in the 560 block of Highway 78. In his final moments, Morrow shared a devastating goodbye with his wife, telling her, “Kayla, I’m dying and I love you.”

Following the shooting, Morrow was transported to UAB Hospital in Birmingham, where he was pronounced dead. His remains were subsequently transferred to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences in Huntsville.

Investigation and Community Support

While the investigation is ongoing, Sumiton police have maintained a firm stance on protecting the integrity of the case, which has drawn significant attention across social media. Officials have asked for public patience as the legal process moves forward regarding Crawford, though no further details on the suspect or the specifics of the homicide have been released at this time.

Morrow leaves behind his wife and his son, Eli. The community has rallied to support the grieving family, with a GoFundMe campaign already raising over $9,000. Additionally, a memorial fund has been set up for the family, with donations being accepted at any Synovus Bank branch.

Funeral Arrangements

Services for Morrow are scheduled for 1 p.m. Monday in the chapel at New Horizon Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will be held prior to the service, starting at 11:30 a.m., with burial to follow at Shanghi Cemetery in Quinton.