KERRY SPENCER | Death Row | Killed Three Birmingham Police Officers While They Were Trying to Serve a Warrant at a Crack House in 2004. His Accomplice, Nathaniel Woods, Was Executed by Lethal Injection in 2020 | ALS

Kerry Spencer. Autographed Letter, Signed. Handwritten, Commercial #10 (4.125 × 9.5 envelope). Mobile, AL. May 22, 2025. Content unknown. SEALED.

Kerry Spencer, born in 1979, is a convicted murderer currently on death row in Alabama for the 2004 ambush killing of three Birmingham police officers. Spencer confessed to the shootings, asserting he acted alone, while his co-defendant, Nathaniel Woods, was also convicted and executed, despite ongoing debates about his involvement. The case has sparked discussions about the fairness of the felony murder rule and the application of the death penalty.

The Ensley Ambush: Kerry Spencer and the Tragedy of Birmingham's Fallen Officers

Early Life and Background:

Kerry Spencer was born in 1979 in Birmingham, Alabama. Details about his early life, family background, and education are scarce in public records. However, by the early 2000s, Spencer was involved in drug-related activities in Birmingham's Ensley neighborhood, a community grappling with crime and economic challenges. He was known to associate with Nathaniel Woods, and together they operated a drug house in the area.

The Crime:

On June 17, 2004, Birmingham police officers Carlos Owen, Harley A. Chisholm III, and Charles R. Bennett attempted to serve a misdemeanor warrant at a residence in Ensley. As they entered the premises, they were met with gunfire. Spencer, armed with an SKS rifle, opened fire on the officers, resulting in their deaths. A fourth officer, Michael Collins, was injured but survived. Spencer later confessed to the shootings, stating he acted alone and that Woods had no involvement in the killings.

Arrest and Legal Proceedings:

Spencer was arrested shortly after the incident and charged with multiple counts of capital murder. In 2005, he was convicted and sentenced to death. His co-defendant, Nathaniel Woods, was also convicted under Alabama's felony murder law, which allows for a person to be held accountable for murder if they were involved in a felony that led to a killing, even if they did not directly commit the act. Woods was executed in 2020, despite Spencer's confession that he acted alone.

Impact and Public Reaction:

The killings of the three officers sent shockwaves through the Birmingham community and the nation. The incident highlighted the dangers law enforcement officers face and led to discussions about the safety protocols during warrant services. The execution of Nathaniel Woods, despite questions about his direct involvement, sparked debates about the fairness of the felony murder rule and the application of the death penalty.

Current Status:

As of 2025, Kerry Spencer remains on death row in Alabama. There is no public information indicating any rehabilitation efforts or changes in his incarceration status. Given his conviction and the nature of his crimes, he is considered a continued risk to society.

Conclusion:

The case of Kerry Spencer underscores the complexities of the criminal justice system, particularly concerning the felony murder rule and capital punishment. It also serves as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and the importance of ensuring justice is served fairly and accurately.

Note on Memorabilia:

Items bearing Kerry Spencer's autograph are exceedingly rare and may hold significant value for collectors of true crime memorabilia, given the notoriety of the case and the limited availability of such items.

VIDEO: Man set to be executed for murder, but he didn't pull the trigger | https://youtu.be/tfMe_EkFn0M

Archiving Protocol:

• Handled with White Gloves ab initio

• Photo Pages/Sheet Protectors: Heavyweight Clear Sheet Protectors, Acid Free & Archival Safe, 8.5 × 11, Top Load

• White Backing Board—Acid Free

Shipping/Packaging: Rigid Mailer 9.5 × 12.5. The Kraft cardboard is white, self-seal, and stay-flat, ensuring it does not bend. Heavy cardboard, which has strong resistance to bending and tearing, makes each rigid mailer sturdy. These mailers are significantly thicker than those used by the USPS. Shipping cost is never more than it absolutely has to be to get it from me to you.