BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Georgia man wanted in connection with the 2024 killing of Deundray Cottrell has been arrested in Miami and is awaiting extradition to Alabama.
The Birmingham Police Department announced that Julian Taylor Morris, 33, of Jonesboro, Georgia, has been charged with murder in Cottrell’s death.
Cottrell was reported missing July 4, 2024. Two days later, on July 6, he was found dead in Birmingham’s East Precinct area. Authorities subsequently ruled his death a homicide.
Police did not provide additional details about how Cottrell died or what investigators believe led to his killing.
The case remained under investigation for more than two years before Morris was taken into custody Sept. 14 by the U.S. Marshals Service in Miami.
Morris is being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center in Miami-Dade County while awaiting extradition to Alabama.
Birmingham Police Chief Michael Pickett credited investigators with continuing to pursue the case despite the passage of time.
“We will continue to pursue those responsible for violent crimes, no matter where they may run,” Pickett said.
Once returned to Alabama, Morris will be held without bond, according to Birmingham Police.