Man Fatally Shoots Mother, Is Then Allegedly Killed by Older Brother in Act of Self-Defense

June 15, 2025 Sharon Banks

A devastating family dispute in Auburn, Alabama, ended in a double homicide on Sunday, June 8, when a 25-year-old man allegedly shot and killed his mother before being fatally shot by his older brother, according to authorities.

The Auburn Police Department, in coordination with the Mobile Police Department (MPD), responded to a reported shooting at a residence around 5:39 p.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered two deceased individuals inside the home: 52-year-old Traci McDuffie and her son, Brandon McDuffie, 25.

According to a statement released by the MPD, investigators determined that Brandon McDuffie fatally shot his mother during an argument that escalated into violence.

Shortly after the initial shooting, Traci’s elder son, 32-year-old Brent McDuffie, arrived at the scene. Police said Brandon allegedly fired at Brent, prompting Brent to return fire in what authorities are currently treating as an act of self-defense.

“The investigation revealed Brandon McDuffie fatally shot his mother, Traci McDuffie, and that’s when Traci’s other son discovered what occurred,” the MPD noted in its release. “Brandon then shot towards the other son, causing the other son to defend himself by shooting Brandon.”

MPD Public Information Officer Blake Brown said that the family conflict escalated rapidly and that some form of communication had alerted Brent to the situation at the home prior to his arrival.

While the investigation is ongoing, authorities confirmed that the case involving Brandon McDuffie’s death will be reviewed by a grand jury, as is standard protocol in fatal shooting incidents involving potential self-defense.

Meanwhile, police noted that the homicide of Traci McDuffie has been considered “abated” due to the death of the alleged perpetrator.

It remains unclear whether Brent McDuffie has been taken into custody or if any charges are pending at this time. Law enforcement has not released further details about the events leading up to the deadly confrontation.

The incident has left the Auburn community reeling. In a heartfelt social media post, the First Baptist Church of Baltimore Street, Inc.—where the McDuffie family is believed to have worshipped—identified Brent as Traci’s oldest son and requested prayers for the grieving family.

“Please continue to lift Brother Brent McDuffie and the family up in prayer during their time of bereavement,” the church wrote.

The church also announced plans to hold a “Celebration of Life” service for the family members on Saturday, June 21.