Man found guilty in killing of Birmingham teen weeks before high school graduation
In a tragic case stemming from a May 2022 shooting, 21-year-old Jemarien Zachius Goree has been convicted of intentional murder in the death of Dwaine Thomas, a 17-year-old Carver High School senior and esteemed baseball player. Goree, who was 18 at the time of the incident, was not the shooter but was found guilty of providing the gun used in the attack. Derrick Michael Stone Jr., the actual shooter, pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of murder and was sentenced to 30 years in prison.
The courtroom drama unfolded before Circuit Judge Kandice Pickett, with Deputy District Attorneys Jason Wilson and Varian Shaw leading the prosecution. Twelve witnesses were called, including Stone, who testified on behalf of Goree. Following the trial, the jury’s verdict was delivered on a Friday afternoon, and Goree awaits sentencing, currently held without bond until August 11.
The incident occurred when an ongoing dispute escalated between Stone and Goree, culminating in a confrontation in a parking lot in Birmingham. During the altercation, Goree placed a gun on the console of their vehicle, which Stone then used to fatally shoot Thomas. Despite the chaotic circumstances, an officer arrived just as the shooting took place, leading to a brief pursuit of the suspects. Carver High Principal Tikki Hines described Thomas as a typical teen who had recently completed his graduation requirements, emphasizing the profound loss felt by the community.
Read the complete article here: https://www.al.com/news/2025/06/man-found-guilty-of-killing-birmingham-teen-weeks-before-high-school-graduation.html
