DOTHAN, Ala. – A man facing a capital murder charge in the 2021 death of Hardy Gray had his bond revoked Thursday after allegedly shooting into an occupied apartment building in February, while out on bond for the initial charge.
Tyshawn Ford, 28, had been granted bond in connection with the capital murder charge related to Gray’s death, but his freedom was short-lived after he picked up new charges. Authorities say Ford was caught on camera firing a weapon into an apartment building at Martin Homes on Tuskegee Avenue, which led to his bond being revoked.
During the revocation hearing, investigators presented footage showing Ford shooting into the building, further complicating his legal situation. However, Ford’s defense centered around claims that he was acting in self-defense after two individuals allegedly broke into his apartment. One of the intruders, according to police, attempted to shoot Ford, prompting him to defend himself and his property.
Instead of contacting authorities, Ford allegedly took matters into his own hands, pursuing the suspects with a gun, which he was not allowed to possess while out on bond for the murder charge. Ford then reportedly fired shots into a residence where the two individuals had sought refuge.
In addition to the shooting, investigators claim that Ford pistol-whipped his child’s mother, who was involved in the break-in. Ford reportedly became suspicious of her involvement, believing she had set him up.
Billy Gray, the brother of Hardy Gray, expressed his relief at the revocation of Ford’s bond. “He shouldn’t have never been out to start with on capital murder, but I’m glad he is revoked and back in jail,” Billy Gray said. He also voiced concerns about the potential danger Ford’s actions posed to others. “I’m so glad nobody was hurt. What if there was a little kid in there and they were hit by a stray bullet? They would have been going through what I’m going through,” Gray added.
The details of Hardy Gray’s death remain tragic. Gray, 34, was found by coworkers in his Pansey, Alabama, home in 2021 with multiple gunshot wounds. He was discovered fully clothed and lying face down in his kitchen, an image that continues to haunt his family.
Ford now faces a range of charges, including capital murder, first-degree attempted assault, and third-degree domestic violence. As the case progresses, it remains unclear what Ford’s next steps will be in terms of his defense or potential trial.
