Teen convicted in Birmingham murder of 16-year-old who died in his parents arms

A Jefferson County jury has delivered a conviction in the 2024 shooting death of 16-year-old Jaylin Jenkins, a case that centered on a fatal confrontation outside a Birmingham neighborhood store.

Christian Cole, who was 17 at the time of the incident, was found guilty on Friday of capital murder during a robbery, felony murder for firing into an occupied vehicle, and robbery. The jury reached their verdict following deliberations that began Friday morning and concluded that afternoon.

The Prosecution and Defense

During the trial, prosecutors argued that Cole acted with cold-blooded intent, killing Jaylin during the theft of a BB gun. Deputy District Attorneys Tiffany Ould and DeMario Thornton, who led the prosecution, expressed satisfaction with the outcome. "We are beyond pleased with the verdict. Justice was served," Ould stated. "We hope this verdict gives Jaylin’s family some measure of peace and closure, though nothing will bring Jaylin back."

In his testimony, Cole—represented by defense attorney Darryl Bender—maintained that he acted in self-defense. Cole claimed the victim had attempted to hit him multiple times and ran over his foot with his car. "I believed he was trying to kill me," Cole told the court. "I was trying to go home."

Background of the Case

The incident occurred on April 9, 2024, in the Inglenook community. Jaylin, the oldest of four home-schooled siblings, had left his home in his father's Acura to pick up a soda. He was ultimately shot in the neck and forearm and died at the scene in the arms of his parents. The circumstances leading to the shooting involved a dispute over a BB gun that escalated after Cole and his cousin encountered Jaylin at the store.

Sentencing and Community Impact

Because of his age at the time of the crime, Cole is not eligible for the death penalty. He faces either life in prison or life without the possibility of parole. If sentenced to life, he would not be eligible for parole until completing 30 years day-for-day. Sentencing is scheduled for June 22, with Circuit Judge Shanta Owens presiding over the proceedings.

Following the verdict, Jefferson County District Attorney Danny Carr addressed the youth of the community. "Your future is so much brighter than any moment of violence," Carr said. "When you pick up a gun, you risk not just your own life, but the futures of everyone around you."