On Wednesday, WAAY 31 learned more about the shooting along Interstate 565 on January 3 that left one man dead.
The victim, 34-year-old Martez Haynes, and the suspect, Justin Watts, were travelling together to Huntsville along with four others on business with a company called 3 Way Cleaning Company that is based in Bessemer. The owner of the company said the group in the van at the time of the shooting were hired as independent contractors.
The owner said he does background checks but operates on a case-by-case basis when hiring new employees. He said he believes people do deserve second chances and this was an unfortunate situation that had nothing to do with his company.
The owner said he has been in contact with the families involved in the shooting.
Watts is in the Madison County Jail on a murder charge. He is being held on a $75,000 bond.
Related Content
- I-565 shooting suspect, victim were independent contractors with Bessemer-based cleaning company
- Victim in I-565 shooting dies
- Bessemer police chase suspect who stole police car
- UPDATE: Missing Bessemer man found safe
- Family mourns the loss of I-565 shooting victim, Martez Haynes
- Company closing MedFlight Huntsville base in Meridianville
- I-565 Lane Closures Start Wednesday
- Multiple wrecks reported along I-565
- Charge upgraded to murder for suspect accused of shooting man along I-565
- Columbia reflects on season after loss to Bessemer City in region semis
