Dothan, Ala. — After spending more than two years behind bars, a Henry County woman has been released after prosecutors and a grand jury found insufficient evidence linking her to the 2022 murder of her best friend.
Jayden Thomas was one of four individuals charged with capital murder and attempted murder in connection with the death of Brittany Corbitt, who was fatally shot in a drive-by shooting on Ozark Road in Newville.
According to law enforcement reports, the shooting stemmed from an argument between occupants of two separate vehicles. Thomas was driving the vehicle targeted in the attack and initially spoke publicly about the tragic loss, expressing her grief over Corbitt’s death and her attempts to protect her friend from harm.
Despite her early statements, Thomas was labeled a suspect and detained at the Henry County jail, where she remained for over two years. During that time, she and her family endured significant emotional hardship.
“It’s an amazing feeling. I’m feeling relieved now that everybody knows the truth, we’ve figured everything out, and everybody has a better understanding,” Thomas said following her release.
Her aunt, Brandi Bradley, echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the toll the ordeal took on Thomas and their family. “Her family and friends knew she was innocent, but that was the devastating part; she lost two years of her life,” Bradley said.
This month, the Henry County District Attorney’s office announced that new information provided by a co-defendant, combined with additional evidence, failed to prove Thomas’s involvement in the crime. Consequently, charges against her were dropped.
The family noted the backlash and negative attention they faced throughout the legal process. Bradley added, “From all of these stories—best friend turned killer, friend or foe—none of that was true. We received so many negative comments, but now you know, as the truth is out.”
Looking ahead, Thomas said she plans to focus on her education and personal growth. “I just want to keep myself up and keep pushing. I want to continue with my life and be very successful. God is in charge, and that’s what makes me feel better,” she said.
