VCU seeks help solving Tuscaloosa County's only unsolved murder

The Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit is asking the public for help in solving its only unsolved murder case so far in 2024.

Although there has been a disturbingly high number of murders in the area this year, VCU brings together investigators from several local law enforcement agencies and breaks traditional jurisdictional barriers when a murder occurs.

Because they have their hands full on each case, their clearance rate is almost unparalleled. Of the 23 murders in the county this year, only one, which occurred in June, remains unsolved. All the other cases have been closed through arrests or self-defense investigations.

Investigators also want justice for the victim, and VCU Commandant Jack Kennedy urged the public to cooperate in this open case if they have any details.

“On 6/20/2024 at approximately 9:49 p.m., Tuscaloosa Police responded to a shooting at 817 33rd Ave,” Kennedy said in a press release Tuesday. “Christopher Labryant Shobe, age 34, was found shot to death outside the home. The Violent Crimes Unit has been investigating this case since then.”

Kennedy said VCU received reports that the victim, Shobe, had been having problems with several people the night before he was fatally shot.

“It is very possible that this incident was witnessed by multiple people. Anyone who witnessed any aspect of this shooting or has information is asked to contact the Violent Crimes Unit at (205) 464-8690,” Kennedy said. “A reward is available through Crimestoppers. Anyone wishing to use Crimestoppers should call (205) 752-7867. All information will be treated as confidential.”

Anyone with more information about the fatal shooting is urged to contact VCU, even anonymously, to help close this case and bring justice for the victim.