Man convicted in deadly Birmingham home invasion that injured pregnant girlfriend: ‘It’s been a long 6 years’

A second suspect has been held accountable for the brutal 2020 home invasion in Birmingham that claimed the life of Devonta Reddick and left his pregnant girlfriend, Sabrea Baylor, fighting for her life.

A Jefferson County jury convicted 33-year-old Cameron Dejuan Blanding of felony murder and attempted murder. The charges stem from the February 6, 2020, shooting that occurred at the couple's Dogwood Lane residence. Baylor, who was eight months pregnant at the time, heroically returned fire during the encounter and successfully delivered their baby the following day.

Justice Served After Six Years

The conviction of Blanding follows the earlier sentencing of his co-defendant, 46-year-old Melvin Charles Morris, who was sentenced to life in prison for his role in the crime. While both men initially faced capital murder charges, they were ultimately convicted of lesser offenses.

Following the verdict, Baylor expressed relief that the long road to justice is nearing its end. "It was a tough case, and it was designed for there to be no witnesses left alive," Baylor stated. "I’m just grateful that God spared my life and my kids’ lives. It’s been a long six years of this."

A Violent Night in Birmingham

Trial testimony revealed a harrowing scene from February 2020. Reddick and Baylor were startled by intruders breaking down their front door. Despite the chaos, Reddick attempted to defend the home, while Baylor retrieved her weapon. As gunfire erupted, Reddick ultimately died in the front yard, while Baylor retreated to protect their child before engaging the suspects in a firefight that left her wounded and Morris shot in the neck.

The investigation broke open after Blanding was apprehended following a police chase in March 2025. Investigators connected the suspects to the scene using cell phone tower data, forensic evidence, and records showing Blanding had deleted activity logs from his phone, though health data still tracked his movements at the time of the murder.

Remembering the Victim

Devonta Reddick, a former Tarrant High School student who aspired to be a rapper, was remembered by his family as a dedicated father and a joyful presence. His sister, Karlisha Reddick, previously described him as a "very sweet person" who served as the glue that kept their family together.

The prosecution of Blanding was led by Deputy District Attorneys Charissa Henrichs, Tiffany Ould, and Mitchell Brisbon, with the trial held before Jefferson County Circuit Judge Stephen Wallace.