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The death of a 22-year-old Alabama woman who was initially believed to have been accidentally shot has now officially been ruled a Homicide, according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office. 

The tragic case involving Whitney Robeson has drawn growing attention after authorities charged her boyfriend’s father with manslaughter following the fatal shooting earlier this year.

Robeson died on March 7 after suffering a gunshot wound to the chest while at the Trussville, Alabama, home of her boyfriend, Brandon Towers. Officials said she sustained severe internal injuries involving her left lung, heart, and aorta.

The Jefferson County Coroner/Medical Examiner's Office confirmed Friday that the manner of death had officially been changed from accidental to homicide.

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“Ruled a Homicide” After Investigation Continues

Authorities have identified Jeffrey Scott Towers, the father of Robeson’s boyfriend, as the individual who fired the gun. Investigators arrested the 54-year-old Monday evening without incident.

According to reports, Towers was charged with manslaughter and later released on $30,000 bond pending future court proceedings.

The case remains under investigation and officials have not publicly disclosed additional details explaining why the coroner’s office revised the manner of death.

Woman's Death Ruled a Homicide: Attorneys claim Accident

Legal representatives for Towers denied criminal wrongdoing in statements issued following his arrest.

“What happened to Ms. Robeson was a tragic event,” attorneys from the Amari Law Firm said in a statement. “While we understand that the justice system must play out, we know that the facts will show that Mr. Towers has no criminal history, has been a productive and upstanding citizen for his entire life, and is not guilty of these charges.”

Information regarding Alabama criminal court proceedings can be found through the Alabama Judicial System.

Auburn Graduate Remembered for Talent and Kindness

Friends and family members have continued honoring Robeson’s life following her death.

The 22-year-old recently graduated summa cum laude from Auburn University with a degree in interior design through the College of Human Sciences. Loved ones said she had just begun her dream career as a trade consultant with Restoration Hardware in Birmingham.

Her obituary described her as a compassionate and generous young woman with exceptional talent and integrity.

“Whitney lived with inimitable grace; keen, quiet attentiveness and loyalty,” her family wrote. 

“She had boundless generosity and an uncanny way of always knowing just what she needed to do.”

Family members also reflected on her passion for interior design, saying she had dreamed of the profession since childhood while watching HGTV home renovation programs.

Tributes poured in from friends, coworkers, and former sorority sisters after news of her death spread across Alabama.

“We are incredibly grateful to have shared in her friendship, and our chapter will forever cherish the memories we made together,” her former sorority chapter said in a memorial tribute.

Legacy Initiative Created in Whitney Robeson’s Memory

In the weeks following her death, Robeson’s loved ones established a charitable initiative called “Wrapped in Whitney’s Love” to preserve her legacy and continue her spirit of generosity.

The program provides swaddles and other supplies for new mothers and babies, helping families in the early stages of parenthood.

Supporters say the initiative reflects Robeson’s caring personality and commitment to helping others.

Death Ruled a Homicide Investigation Continues

Meanwhile, the criminal case against Jeffrey Scott Towers is expected to proceed through Alabama courts in the coming months as investigators continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting.

The case has generated significant public interest as authorities work to determine exactly what happened inside the Trussville home the night Robeson was killed.