Birmingham Community Mourns Benard Duane Montez Watts After June 4 Holley Avenue Gathering Incident
Benard Duane Montez Watts, 50, died after a late-night gathering on June 4, 2026, in the 100 block of Holley Avenue in Birmingham, Alabama.
Emergency responders took Watts and several others to UAB Hospital shortly after 8:30 p.m., where medical teams later pronounced Watts and 33-year-old Diandra Young Johnson deceased.
Officers responded after multiple emergency calls and recovered more than 30 casings as investigators began reviewing witness accounts.
Officials reported no arrests by June 5, 2026, and said the case remained active and ongoing.
Loved ones remember Watts as a steady presence with deep personal connections and a life rooted in meaningful relationships.
The Birmingham community continues to grieve with the families as they face the loss of two lives from one gathering.
Details regarding memorial services and funeral arrangements will be announced later by family members.
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