Violent Crimes Unit searching for witnesses in pedestrian’s death Tuesday

Thousands of cars zoom by Interstate 20/59’s Exit 76 onto Skyland Boulevard in Tuscaloosa every day.

But some of those drivers Tuesday witnessed what the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit is calling a murder.

“Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit responded and took over the investigation,” said Capt. Marty Sellers. “Throughout the investigation, we were able to determine the facts did support that it was an intentional act.”

Just after 11 a.m. Feb. 8, 27-year-old Dennis Melton was struck near that exit and wound up trapped under a vehicle. Angelica Quintana, 28, of Demopolis was charged with murder in his death.

“Obviously, we want every witness who saw anything to contact us,” Sellers said. “We have talked to several, but there probably are some more. So anyone who would have seen this occur should let us know.”

So how did the tragedy unfold? Sellers said they believe Melton and Quintana got into an argument. At some point, Melton got out of the car and then got hit by it.

Sellers said this incident shows how dangerous and deadly domestic violence can be.

“Domestic violence happens every day in all locations,” he said. “People who are involved in domestic violence situations, there is a lot of help there for you.”

First steps include calling authorities or a domestic violence organization like Turning Point of West Alabama, Sellers said. Turning Point works with anyone in need of domestic violence services, not just women.

If you need immediate assistance, their 24-hour crisis line is 205-758-0808.

“Every case we work is tragic,” he said. “This is just another example of people making decisions they probably shouldn’t have made.”

Quintana remains in the Tuscaloosa County Jail on a $500,000.00 bond.