A man received a 10-year federal prison sentence on August 7 for illegal firearm and ammunition possession, stemming from a shooting at a funeral in Fort Deposit, central Alabama.

Gerald Dyron Little, 42, from Montgomery, disrupted the funeral of his step-uncle, James Gipson, on June 26, 2021. 

After departing the service upon request of the family, Little returned during the graveside service. A further disagreement with family members led to Little discharging his firearm, resulting in the death of Jerry Gipson, the brother of the deceased.

Federal officials confirmed that Little, with a prior felony, breached federal laws by having a firearm and ammunition. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives spearheaded the investigation, linking Little to the incident via shell casings. Post-sentence, Little faces three years of supervised release.

U.S. Attorney Sandra J. Stewart emphasized the importance of peaceful mourning.

State authorities have also charged Little with murder and attempted murder.

The initial disagreement was reportedly over loud music from Little’s vehicle.

The incident also left three others injured.