Trussville Police arrested Kanen Isaac Harper, 24, of Moody, in the shooting death of Christian Scott White early Saturday.
The Trussville Tribune reported White was shot in a parking lot in the 1900 block of Gadsden Highway at approximately 1:05 a.m. Initial reports stated the shooting happened in the parking lot of Velma’s bar. However, Velma’s owner, Tammy Butler, released a statement clarifying that the shooting occurred in the parking lot of the veterinarian’s office next door.
“At no time during the night of December 19 or the morning of December 20 was there any altercation between the parties involved, either inside Velma’s or outside on Velma’s premises,” an attorney for Velma’s stated. “Velma’s employs security to ensure the safety of its patrons while on premises.”
After reviewing surveillance footage, Velma’s stated there was no reason to believe the victim had been to Velma’s before the shooting.
“All that being said, we mourn the loss of Christian White, who was not only our loyal customer but also a personal friend to many of our staff,” the restaurant stated. “Our condolences and prayers go out to his family and friends. And we ask that you remember them as well as our staff, several of whom were the first to rush next door to render aid and are devastated by this.”
Harper is charged with murder. He is being held in the Jefferson County Jail with no bond.
Harper is considered innocent until proven guilty.
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