Bennie Harris, a 47-year-old Black man described by neighbors as a friendly truck driver and father of six, was found dead inside his Todd Avenue home in Birmingham after firefighters extinguished a blaze on July 8, 2021 at about 11:30 p.m. The fire did not cause his death; the Jefferson County Coroner determined Harris died from a gunshot wound, and Birmingham police opened a homicide investigation.

Reports say the shooting was followed by a fire that engulfed the residence, suggesting an effort to conceal the killing. Family and neighbors remembered Harris for his automotive skills and his role as a father, while investigators appealed to the public for leads. No arrests or suspects have been publicly announced and the case remains open.

If anyone knew Bennie Harris, saw activity near Todd Avenue that night, or has information that could help investigators, please come forward.