2nd suspect arrested in transgender Alabama woman’s homicide
AUTAUGA COUNTY, Ala. (WSFA) - A second suspect is in custody, charged in connection to a deadly double shooting that happened Monday night in Autaugaville, according to Autauga County Sheriff Mark Harrell.
The sheriff said investigators arrested Leroy Lewis, 20, of Prattville, for the murder of Kaitoria Bankz, a member of the area’s LGBTQ+ community. Her brother, whose name has not been released, was shot in the head but survived.
Lewis’ arrest comes after several search warrants were executed, the sheriff confirmed. A weapon reportedly used at the scene was also recovered.
The sheriff’s office believes Lewis helped Kelmen Merrell King, 27, of Autaugaville, commit the deadly crime during an attempted carjacking.
Harrell previously stated that Bankz and King communicated online before the deadly incident and met for what investigators believe would be a sexual encounter before the deadly carjacking.
It’s unclear if Bankz being transgender played any role in the homicide.
Alabama LGBT+ group mourns member’s death in attempted carjacking
“Kai was a bright light in our organization,” said TC Caldwell, Executive Director of TKO Society. “Her bold presence inspired everyone around her."
King turned himself in to law enforcement Tuesday morning. Both men are charged with murder and attempted murder, while Lewis also faces an obstruction charge. Their bonds are set at $60,000.
Lewis has a criminal record, but the sheriff noted each of the previous charges were all for minor infractions.
Harrell noted that the investigation is ongoing and that more arrests are possible.
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