Dothan, Ala. (WDNews) – Dothan Police Chief William E. Benny has released a statement following the long-awaited arrest in the 2010 murder of Grace Bell Bridges, calling the case “a powerful reminder that justice never sleeps.”
Bridges was found dead on March 17, 2010, inside Dedert’s Furniture on South Park Avenue. Responding officers initially believed she had suffered a medical emergency, but quickly discovered she had been shot. Despite early efforts, the case went cold.
Now, more than 15 years later, Chief Benny confirmed a 32-year-old man has been indicted for the murder. He was 17 at the time of the crime and is now in custody. Due to Alabama juvenile privacy laws, his identity is not being released.
“No murder case that is unsolved is ever closed,” Chief Benny stated. “This case, like so many others, has remained in our hearts and files as we worked to bring justice to Grace Bridges and her family.”
Benny said a recent review by new investigators in the Criminal Investigations Division brought a fresh perspective. Detectives reexamined evidence, interviewed witnesses, and determined there was enough to seek an indictment. After consultation with District Attorney Russ Goodman, the case was presented to a Houston County Grand Jury, which returned an indictment on April 9, 2025.
“This indictment is the result of unwavering determination,” Benny said. “The dedication of investigators in 2010 and those who revisited the case in 2025 is a testament to our department’s mission — justice for victims and their families.”
Chief Benny also thanked the many witnesses who came forward over the years and expressed deep appreciation to the Bridges family for their strength and continued support.
“Our thoughts are with the Bridges family,” he added. “We hope this step brings some peace, even though we know nothing can bring Grace back.”
Official Statement from Chief William Benny with the Dothan Police Department
