Saturday homicide in Sheffield – Charges pending investigation outcome

SHEFFIELD – Chief Greg Ray said, “We have to answer a lot more questions before we know what to charge Mr. Martin with… I he gets charged with anything at all.” He was discussing the task before Sheffield Police investigators who are looking into the circumstances surrounding a fatal shooting last night in the city.

Police were called to 3516 18th Court about 10:30pm to investigate the shooting death of Thomas Grant Campbell in the quiet neighborhood near Sheffield High School. Campbell, 27 of Muscle Shoals was pronounced dead on arrival at Helen Keller Hospital.

“The circumstances surrounding the shooting are still being worked out,” said Chief Ray. Evidently, Campbell was a guest at the house on 18th Court. Ray said that Campbell had left the house and was seen by Martin and another guest, Amanda Fleming of Phil Campbell, talking to a girl out in front of the residence.

Police Chief Greg Ray – File Photo

“They were unhappy for some reason that Campbell was standing outside talking to this female… she is apparently only around 13 years old. They didn’t like that and told him to leave the property.” Ray continued, “Well, it seems that Campbell, who had been told to leave, came back to the front door anyway, apparently to recover his cellphone,” Ray continued, “At least that what Martin told my officers. But then, Martin said that Campbell grabbed Amanda Fleming and put a knife to her throat. And that’s when he shot Campbell. So, you can see, we still have a lot of things to work out before we can file any charges,” Ray added, “It could turn out to be a justifiable shooting, and then there will be no charges filed.”

Chief Ray said that the case will be referred to the Colbert County District Attorney’s Office on Monday. Until then, Martin is incarcerated on a 48-to-72 hour hold in Sheffield City Jail. Fleming, was also taken in for questioning but was released.

Originally published 11/17/2013