Birmingham, AL, September 2, 2025

News Summary

Mercutio Southall, a Black Lives Matter activist, has been charged with first-degree arson after allegedly setting fire to a Walmart during a protest in Birmingham. The fire caused over $130,000 in damages and prompted a closure of the store. The protest was in response to the shooting of 18-year-old Jabari Peoples by police. Southall is currently held without bond, while investigations continue into possible further charges and individuals involved.

Birmingham Activist Charged with Arson After Walmart Fire During Protest

Birmingham, Alabama – Mercutio Southall, a 40-year-old Black Lives Matter activist, has been charged with first-degree arson and first-degree criminal mischief following a fire set inside a Walmart Supercenter during a protest on August 22. The fire resulted in significant damages estimated at over $130,000 and forced the store to close for the day.

The incident occurred in connection to a protest for 18-year-old Jabari Peoples, who was fatally shot by a police officer a month prior to the demonstration. The protest took place at Homewood Soccer Park, where community members gathered to express their grievances related to the officer’s actions. On the day of the protest, six individuals were also taken into custody on charges of disorderly conduct.

Details of the Incident

According to reports, Homewood police and fire departments responded to emergency calls regarding the fire at the Walmart located on Lakeshore Parkway. Investigators concluded that a shopping cart filled with flammable materials had been deliberately set ablaze inside the store. Evidence quickly pointed to Southall as a suspect, who had been seen engaging with protesters at the Soccer Park before making his way to the Walmart.

During the investigation, authorities found that Southall had filled a shopping cart with items including rags, blankets, charcoal bags, small engine fuel, and paint thinner. He placed the cart in a clothing aisle before returning to the protest. After the majority of protesters had left the Soccer Park, Southall reportedly returned to Walmart, where he is accused of igniting the fire that necessitated a mass evacuation of the store.

Legal Proceedings

Southall has been booked into the Jefferson County Jail, where he is being held without bond pending a hearing under Aniah’s Law. The Homewood police are working in conjunction with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to pursue potential federal charges regarding the fire. The ongoing investigation suggests that there may be additional individuals implicated in the incident.

Background Context

The protest occurred in the wake of the Jefferson County District Attorney’s ruling that the shooting of Jabari Peoples by a police officer was justified, as he was armed at the time of the encounter. This ruling has sparked significant discussions and mobilizations among community members advocating for police reform and accountability. Southall’s previous criminal history includes a guilty plea to disorderly conduct and resisting arrest in 2015, as well as a conviction in 2016 for possessing a firearm during a demonstration in Montgomery County.

The situation has raised concerns regarding public safety during protests and the responses from law enforcement agencies in Alabama. As the investigation continues, the community is keenly watching how the legal proceedings unfold and whether further actions will be taken to address the issues underlying the protests.

Key Takeaways

• Mercutio Southall charged with first-degree arson after a Walmart fire during a protest.
• Protest was in response to the shooting of Jabari Peoples by a police officer.
• Southall is detained without bond, with ongoing investigations suggesting more charges could follow.

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Additional Resources

• AL.com: Birmingham Activist Accused of Setting Fire
• Wikipedia: Protests in the United States
• WBRC: Birmingham Activist Charged with Arson
• Google Search: Jabari Peoples protest
• AL.com: Attorney Sues Birmingham Mayoral Candidate
• Google Scholar: Police Reform in Alabama
• WBRC: Smoke Inhalation After Apartment Fire
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Protests
• The New York Times: Coronavirus and 5G
• Google News: Jabari Peoples

Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER

The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.