In a heartbreaking case from Alabama, a woman who was murdered along with her young son and boyfriend managed to send a one-word text message before her death — a word that would later help police catch her killer.
28-year-old Arkia “Kia” Berry sent a final message containing just one word: “Jaco.” That name pointed investigators toward 25-year-old Jacorrian McGregor, who is now charged with capital murder in the July 2024 triple homicide.
What Happened in the Birmingham Shooting?
On July 13, 2024, police in Birmingham received a 911 call about what appeared to be a car accident in the Echo Highlands neighborhood. But when officers arrived, they found a bullet-riddled vehicle and three victims inside, all dead from gunshot wounds.
The victims were:
- Arkia Berry, 28, a hairstylist and loving mother
- Her 5-year-old son, Landyn Brooks, who was about to start kindergarten
- Eric Ashley Jr., 28, Arkia’s boyfriend
A Final Clue: The Name “Jaco”
During a court hearing on April 17, 2025, Detective Jarvelius Tolliver shared that Arkia’s final text message — the word “Jaco” — referred to McGregor’s nickname.
“She texted his name right before she died,” Tolliver said.
Phone records also showed that McGregor’s friends messaged him shortly after the shooting, advising him to “lay low” and “stay hidden.” This further supported suspicions that he was trying to escape after the crime.
Evidence Builds Against McGregor
Detectives recovered 20 to 30 bullet casings from the scene. Arkia was driving the car, with her boyfriend in the front passenger seat and Landyn in the back seat behind her.
Police also investigated a green Kia, believed to be linked to the crime. That car was later set on fire, and security camera footage showed it near the victims’ car just before the shooting.
McGregor wasn’t arrested until February 24, 2025, and the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force assisted in locating him.
He is currently being held at Jefferson County Jail without bond.
Victims Remembered as Loving and Close
Arkia’s cousin, Aniya Berry, spoke with local news and described the strong bond between Arkia and her son:
“They were like two peas in a pod. She loved her baby so much. She took care of him the way she was supposed to.”
Landyn was described as an energetic young boy who loved playing football and was excited to start school that year.