Suspect Charged In Shooting Death Of Woodlawn Teen

BIRMINGHAM, AL - When the news broke that Woodlawn High School student William Edwards had been shot and killed in his home September 1, it rocked a community that found itself looking for answers. Edwards, the captain of the Woodlawn football team, had a promising future ahead of him, a future cut short by violence. Police now have a suspect in custody and have charged him with murder.

Related story: Woodlawn High School Student Shot And Killed Saturday Morning

A report by Alabama Media Group said Birmingham police late Tuesday afternoon announced the arrest of 17-year-old Rodrick Hodges. Hodges is charged with capital murder. Police have not said what led to the arrest of Hodges nor released a motive in the slaying. Edwards' mother said she was told Hodges and her son did not know each other, and that Hodges said he was paid to shoot William.

Edwards was pronounced dead about 12:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 1, at the family's 80th Street North home. Birmingham police said he was killed by bullets fired from outside the home, and they didn't believe the shooting was random. (For more updates on this story and free news alerts for your neighborhood, sign up for your local Patch morning newsletter.)

Hodges is being held in the Jefferson County Jail. William's funeral is set to be held Saturday at 11 a.m. at Revelation Church Ministries in Irondale. A GoFundMe has been established to help with the funeral. Donations can be made here.

Photo via Jefferson County Jail