James Sencer Bowen Jr Death – Bessemer police are actively searching for a suspect involved in a fatal shooting that took place at Engineered Plastics Components Inc. on Monday afternoon.
The incident occurred around 3:45 p.m. in the parking lot of the factory, situated just off Greenwood Parkway, and has left the community grappling with the latest in a series of violent events.
The victim, 21-year-old James Sencer Bowen, Jr., was shot on site and quickly transported to UAB Hospital. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.
This incident is the latest in a string of violent episodes that have shaken Bessemer, with the city coming off a particularly troubling Labor Day weekend marred by crime.
According to the Bessemer Police Department, the shooter fled the scene in a vehicle shortly after the attack. While the identity of the suspect remains unknown, authorities have stated that they believe the shooting was an isolated incident, offering some relief to the public, who have been assured they are not in immediate danger.
Despite the police’s reassurance, the fatal event has rattled many in the area. Workers at the factory and residents in the surrounding community expressed mixed reactions.
Some admitted to feeling desensitized to violence, given the recent spike in local crime, while others voiced their deep concern, recognizing the human toll these incidents take on families and neighbors alike.