Members of the Sheffield community are organizing a march for answers

SHEFFIELD, Alabama (WAFF) – Community leaders will gather in Sheffield on Saturday in a so-called march for answers and justice.

The hanging death of Dennoris Richardson in September, which was ruled a suicide, was the turning point of the march.

Several Colbert County community leaders are organizing a weekend march to unite the community and try to heal from what they say is loss after loss they have experienced.

“It’s time to unite,” Eartis Bridges Jr. said.

Eartis Bridges Jr. said Saturday’s march was about justice for Denorissa Richardson, but added it was also a chance to bring Sheffield back. He said there have been many heartbreaking deaths in the community this year.

It’s been almost two months since the Colbert County Sheriff’s Department found Richardson hanging from an abandoned carport just off 72nd Street.

Colbert County investigators and the state medical examiner’s office ruled his death a suicide.

“Dennoriss was fun-loving,” Bridges explained. “He trained young people. He looked after young people in this area. Just a person who had deep connections with the whole city of Sheffield. You know he was loved by many people.

According to Richardson’s attorney, Roderick Van Daniel, Richardson’s family believes there was foul play and is demanding answers.

Van Daniel said Richardson has filed a federal lawsuit against Sheffield police for using excessive force during an incident that occurred in early 2024.

The Colbert County sheriff wanted to settle the case after the family’s case was concluded and ensure transparency in the death investigation, so he asked the FBI for a second opinion. At this time, the FBI has not made any decision on the outcome of this case.

“I became part of it for moral support. Quite often, when something goes wrong in our community, churches fall silent,” said Stephen Gill. “I really want to stand in the gap and let them know that the church is present and wants to be a part of repairing the divisions in our community.”

Community members such as two local pastors, Stephen Gill and Wesley Thompson, want everyone to come together and show support for the hurting family.

“They don’t have answers as to why they’re suffering, and I think it’s very important that as pastors and community leaders we let these people know that even if we don’t have the answers, we care that you’re looking for them,” Thompson said.

Bridges said she wants to see better connections between city officials and the community, and that starts now.

The march will start at 2pm on Saturday at Sheffield Town Hall. Bridges encourages everyone to wear black and come to the march with a purpose.

Click here to subscribe on YouTube: Watch the latest news, sports and weather videos from WAFF 48 on our YouTube channel!