The search for two missing friends from Birmingham, Cortez Thomas, 31, and Teshonda Means, 26, came to a devastating conclusion on Sunday, with Thomas found dead and Means discovered injured in separate locations.
Cortez Thomas and Teshonda Means were last seen in Birmingham’s Norwood community around 7:30 p.m. on Friday. They were riding a three-wheel motorcycle, a sighting captured by a home surveillance camera.
On Sunday morning, passersby found Teshonda Means walking in northern Birmingham, injured and needing medical attention. She was promptly taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Tragically, a short time later, Cortez Thomas was discovered deceased beside the three-wheeler in a patch of overgrown grass outside an abandoned house. The location of the grim discovery was identified as 20th Street and 15th Avenue North in the Druid Hills community.
The scene quickly drew dozens of family members, who gathered in mourning as the area was cordoned off by yellow police tape.
At this early stage of the investigation, authorities are working diligently to ascertain the circumstances surrounding Cortez Thomas’ death. They are exploring whether Thomas was the victim of a traffic collision or if foul play may have been a factor.
The Birmingham Police Department urges anyone with information relevant to the case to come forward. Individuals can call 911 or contact Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777 for assistance.
As the community grapples with this tragic loss and the injuries sustained by Teshonda Means, our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of Cortez Thomas and Teshonda Means during this difficult time. We extend our deepest condolences to all those affected by this heartbreaking ordeal.
