Isaiah Tyson Anthony Death and Obituary – On September 18, 2023, a tragic shooting occurred on Laure Avenue in southwest Birmingham, resulting in the death of 26-year-old Isaiah Tyson Anthony, a man eagerly awaiting the arrival of his first child. The case surrounding his death has revealed details of a botched robbery attempt gone wrong, with a teenager, Deionya Saki Harley, 19, charged with capital murder in connection to Anthony’s death.
According to the investigation led by Birmingham homicide Detective Jarvelius Tolliver, the fatal shooting occurred around 5 p.m. outside a residence at 1716 Laure Avenue. Anthony, who had been visiting the home to meet with others, was found lying face down on the street, with his pockets turned inside out, indicating a robbery attempt. Witnessing the aftermath, the police discovered Anthony’s vehicle still running and a crumpled $1 bill near the crime scene, further suggesting that the incident was tied to a botched robbery.
Detective Tolliver testified that, at the scene, investigators found 30 to 40 shell casings, which indicated that multiple shots had been fired. Anthony suffered multiple gunshot wounds, and the detective also mentioned that the victim had sustained other injuries, including scrapes and bruises, which suggested that he might have been running when he fell. Blood and shell casings at the scene led authorities to conclude that the gunfire had originated from the driveway, with Anthony ultimately collapsing on the street.
The accused, Deionya Saki Harley, was also injured in the shooting, sustaining a gunshot wound to the abdomen. Harley, a Birmingham resident, required surgery for his injuries. He has been in custody at the Jefferson County Jail since February 2, facing charges of attempted murder and first-degree robbery unrelated to Anthony’s death. Harley’s defense in the capital murder case is being handled by attorneys Joseph Page and Charles Black from the Jefferson County Public Defender’s Office.
At the preliminary hearing, Detective Tolliver provided a detailed account of the crime, pointing out that the victim’s body showed signs of being shot multiple times. The detective further testified that Anthony’s injuries were consistent with someone who had been in a desperate struggle or attempt to flee the scene. The case was forwarded to a grand jury for potential indictment after Judge William Bell ruled that there was sufficient evidence to proceed with capital murder charges against Harley.
The prosecution is being led by Jefferson County Deputy District Attorney Charissa Henrich. As the legal process continues, the community is left to mourn the loss of Isaiah Tyson Anthony, who was not only a victim of a senseless crime but also an expectant father whose future was tragically cut short. The case serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with violent crime and the devastating impact it has on families and loved ones.