A Birmingham woman who fatally shot the father of her child during a violent altercation was acquitted of capital murder. The jury found that she acted in self-defense after enduring years of abuse.

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BIRMINGHAM, AL (4-minute read) — A Jefferson County jury has acquitted 27-year-old Tykirel Jordan in the 2022 fatal shooting of Alpatrick McKinstry, ruling that she acted in self-defense during a violent encounter that unfolded in front of multiple children, including their shared 3-year-old daughter.

The shooting happened on May 23, 2022, outside a home on 60th Street in the Ensley neighborhood of Birmingham. Jordan had reportedly dropped off one of McKinstry’s older daughters after dance practice when an argument erupted. According to defense attorneys, McKinstry, who is 6 feet tall and weighing over 220 pounds, was high on cocaine and methamphetamine when he tried to physically assault Jordan.

During the trial, her legal team described McKinstry as a long-time abuser. They said Jordan fired a single, defensive shot to protect herself after McKinstry took her phone and became aggressive. The prosecution argued that Jordan was acting out of rage and chased him before pulling the trigger. However, the jury ultimately sided with the defense, citing credible evidence of ongoing domestic abuse.

The incident was captured by Birmingham’s ShotSpotter system, which alerted police to a single gunshot. Officers found McKinstry dead at the scene. Jordan had already fled but later called 911 from nearby Fairfield and admitted to the shooting. She was arrested and charged with capital murder two days later due to the presence of children during the incident.

Domestic Violence and Firearm Self-Defense

Jordan and McKinstry’s relationship had been marked by years of instability. Prosecutors acknowledged the relationship was toxic and tumultuous. Jordan, a dance coach, had aspirations of opening a low-cost dance studio for underprivileged girls, dreams that were put on hold during the legal battle.

Defense attorney John Robbins noted the importance of the verdict, especially since it was delivered on the final day of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. He emphasized that Jordan acted to defend herself from what could have become a deadly assault. The legal team praised the jury for thoroughly evaluating the evidence and recognizing Jordan’s right to self-defense.

The trial, presided over by Jefferson County Circuit Judge Alaric May, concluded after several days of emotional testimony. The jury deliberated quickly, reaching a not-guilty verdict just four days after opening statements.

Jordan’s case is a powerful reminder of the complex and dangerous realities faced by victims of domestic abuse. In states like Alabama, self-defense laws, sometimes referred to as “Stand Your Ground” laws, give individuals the right to use deadly force when facing a credible threat of serious injury or death.

Safety Tip: If you’re carrying a concealed firearm, always be aware of your state’s self-defense laws. Understand when you’re legally justified to use force, and seek legal training if needed to protect yourself responsibly and lawfully.