BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — As Birmingham Police Department continues to investigate the murder of Deundray Cottrell, a person of interest in the case is speaking out through his attorney.
Cottrell's boyfriend Julian Morris is believed to be the last person who saw or heard from the 31-year-old. The victim's family has been pleading for answers since Cottrell was found dead two days after his disappearance.
"Why, why? What exactly did happen?" Timothy Cottrell, Deundray's brother, said. "We would just like to know exactly what happened."
Timothy said his family wishes Morris would speak up, as they feel he has answers that could help with Deundray's death investigation.
"We would definitely love to hear words come from his mouth," Timothy said. "Just off the simple fact that you were the last one with him. So, just tell us what happened, give us that."
Cottrell was last seen running away from his sister's home on 4th Avenue South, Morris told his family. His body was later found one block over on 5th Avenue South.
Since then, police have named Morris as a person of interest and have asked for him to help with the investigation.
Morris' attorney released a statement reading in part quote:
"Despite the false narratives…In this situation, he loved Deundray Cottrell and is currently grieving the death of his loved one. Mr. Morris wants answers as well and is awaiting those answers after a full and thorough investigation has been completed."
Birmingham Police followed with their own statement which reads:
"Julian Morris was the last person to see and/or hear from Deundray Cottrell before his disappearance. He is currently a 'Person of interest' in this investigation which means we believe he holds crucial information in this case. Julian Morris was seen by and spoke with BPD officers before Deundray's body was discovered. Since Deundray Cottrell's body was discovered, Julian Morris, his family, and his legal counsel have not spoken with BPD detectives."
A cause of death has not been released.