Prichard, AL – A domestic dispute in Prichard, Alabama, escalated into a fatal shooting over the weekend, leaving 33-year-old Jymatric Pickens dead after an altercation with his mother and younger brother. According to the Prichard Police Department (PPD) and the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), the shooting occurred in the 1000 block of Dade Street on Sunday morning, February 2, 2025.

Authorities responded to the scene shortly after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire. Upon arrival, first responders discovered Pickens lying in the home with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to render aid, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

A History of Domestic Violence

According to law enforcement officials, the shooting followed a history of domestic violence incidents at the residence. MCSO investigators revealed that Pickens had a documented history of violent encounters with his mother, with police having responded to the home multiple times for prior altercations.

On the morning of the shooting, Pickens allegedly arrived at his mother’s residence in an aggressive state, issuing threats and physically attacking her. Family members told investigators that this was not the first time Pickens had exhibited violent behavior.

“He had a long history of abuse,” a family member stated, speaking on condition of anonymity. “We always feared something terrible was going to happen.”

Younger Brother Intervenes, Leading to Fatal Shooting

As the situation escalated, Pickens’ younger brother, whose name has not been released by authorities, reportedly stepped in to defend their mother.

According to statements gathered by investigators, the younger brother attempted to defuse the situation verbally, urging Pickens to leave. However, when Pickens became more aggressive and continued his assault, the younger brother retrieved a firearm and fired multiple shots, striking Pickens several times.

Authorities have confirmed that the younger brother remained at the scene and cooperated fully with law enforcement officers.

Legal Ramifications and Ongoing Investigation

As of Monday morning, no arrests have been made in connection to the shooting. MCSO has stated that the case remains under active investigation and will be presented to the Mobile County District Attorney’s Office for further review.

Legal experts suggest that Alabama’s self-defense laws, including “stand your ground” provisions, could play a significant role in determining whether charges will be filed.

“In cases where a person acts in defense of themselves or another individual, Alabama law provides legal protections under justifiable homicide statutes,” said Mobile-based criminal defense attorney William Chambers. “If investigators determine that the shooting was necessary to prevent imminent harm, the shooter may not face charges.”

Community Reaction and Family Statements

The fatal shooting has sparked strong reactions from both family members and the broader Prichard community. Some neighbors who were familiar with Pickens’ history of violence expressed sympathy for his younger brother, describing him as a “quiet and respectful young man who always tried to protect his family.”

“This is heartbreaking,” said longtime resident Angela Carter. “I knew Jymatric, and I knew he had his struggles, but I never imagined it would end like this. That poor boy had to make a choice no one should ever have to make.”

Others believe that Pickens’ violent tendencies had made such an outcome inevitable. “We saw it coming,” one anonymous neighbor told reporters. “Every time the cops showed up at that house, we all worried that one day something terrible would happen.”

Family members are now grappling with the emotional toll of losing one son while another may face legal repercussions for his actions.

“We lost Jymatric, and our hearts are broken,” said a family friend. “But we also stand by his brother. He did what he felt he had to do. This whole thing is just tragic.”

Examining Domestic Violence in Alabama

This incident has also reignited discussions about domestic violence issues in Alabama and the resources available for families facing abuse. Advocates for domestic violence victims are emphasizing the need for more intervention services, counseling programs, and emergency shelters to prevent these tragedies.

According to the Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ACADV), domestic violence remains a serious issue in the state, with thousands of reported cases each year. In many situations, family members feel trapped, with few options for escape or legal protection.

“Far too often, victims of domestic abuse feel they have nowhere to turn,” said Lisa Franklin, director of a local domestic violence shelter in Mobile. “This case underscores why we need more community resources to help families before situations escalate to fatal violence.”

What Happens Next?

As the investigation continues, authorities will review forensic evidence, witness statements, and 911 call recordings to determine the exact sequence of events leading up to the shooting. The Mobile County District Attorney’s Office is expected to release an official decision regarding charges in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, the Pickens family remains in mourning, trying to come to terms with an unimaginable loss while awaiting legal clarity on the fate of their youngest son.

“This family has been shattered,” a close relative stated. “Now they have to wait and see if the justice system will understand why this happened.”

Seeking Support and Assistance

For those struggling with domestic violence or living in fear of an abusive family member, resources are available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), and local shelters in the Mobile area provide emergency assistance for victims seeking safety.

As Prichard residents process the aftermath of this tragedy, many hope that increased awareness and intervention will prevent similar incidents in the future. For now, the case remains a painful reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked domestic violence.

Anyone with additional information about the case is urged to contact the Prichard Police Department at (251) 452-2211 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at (251) 208-7000.