C&P Newswire
CLEVELAND, Ohio – On December 6, 2023, what began as a routine workday for an Amazon delivery driver quickly spiraled into chaos when 24-year-old Jalen Jackson allegedly carjacked the driver at gunpoint near Summit Park Road in Cleveland Heights.
Witnesses say Jackson, armed and desperate, ordered the driver out before speeding off in the van. Cleveland Heights Police were soon in pursuit, but Jackson refused to stop. Instead, he fired multiple shots at officers while fleeing toward I-90 westbound.
The situation turned even more dire as Jackson, driving without headlights, entered oncoming traffic. Just moments later, near Fulton Road in Cleveland, he crashed head-on into another vehicle.
The victim, Dr. Curtis Birchall, 70, was pronounced dead at the scene. Birchall, a retired physician known for his decades of service to the Cleveland community, had been on his way home from an evening gathering with friends.
“Dr. Birchall dedicated his life to healing others,” said longtime friend and colleague Dr. Evelyn Parker. “To have his life stolen in such a senseless act is devastating.”
Prosecutors say Jackson, who has a history of violent offenses, pleaded guilty on Monday to a range of charges, including involuntary manslaughter, aggravated robbery, and illegally possessing a firearm. He also admitted guilt in two unrelated cases.
Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael O’Malley condemned Jackson’s actions. “His reckless disregard for human life resulted in the death of a man who meant so much to this city. There must be accountability.”
Jackson now faces 26 to 34 years in prison with no chance of early release. His sentencing is scheduled for April 30.
As the city mourns the loss of Dr. Birchall, community members have called for increased measures to prevent violent crimes and protect innocent lives from senseless tragedies like this one.
