Shreveport Hailed for Reopening Historical Civil Rights Leader’s Suicide Case

Reopening of a Historical Civil Rights Case

Shreveport Police Department has reopened the alleged suicide case of the late civil rights leader, Ann Brewster. The announcement of this development came on March 7, as Councilwoman Tabitha Taylor issued a resolution thanking both the city of Shreveport and the police department for revisiting the case.

Brewster– More Than Just an Activist

Brewster was a recognized figure in the civil rights movement, famous both inside and outside of Shreveport. She operated a salon called the Modern Beauty Shop alongside colleagues Mamie Love Wallace and Berniece Smith. The establishment served as a secret hub for passing information pertinent to the movement. Among her collaborators, renowned figures included Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Ralph Abernathy.

Mysterious Circumstances Surrounding Death

An unsolved mystery dating back to February 1964, Brewster was found dead in her home with a gunshot wound to her head. A suicide note was discovered at the scene. However, those associated with Brewster maintained that she was not the type to commit suicide, leading to longstanding suspicions surrounding her demise.

Based on the investigative report filed by Domonique Benn in coalition with Dr. Gary Joiner, Craig Lee, Maxine Sarpy, Verma Lee Henderson, John Prime, Reverend Asriel McLain, and Vincent William, Councilwoman Taylor felt compelling reasons to recommend a second look at Brewster’s death. Chief Wayne Smith of the Shreveport Police Department heeded Taylor’s request and agreed to re-examine the case.

Acknowledgement and Gratitude

Subsequently, Councilwoman Taylor issued a resolution expressing gratitude to the Shreveport Police Department, Chief Wayne Smith, and the City of Shreveport for their willingness to reopen the case. The pivotal factor in this re-examination is aimed at pursuing the truth behind Brewster’s death, after years of lingering suspicions and doubts.

Resolution

A resolution was put forth by the City Council of the City of Shreveport recognizing and thanking the city and the police department for their decision. The resolution also made clear that invalidating any provision of this resolution would not impair the others in effect, and that any conflicting ordinances or resolutions would be repealed.

Remembering a Leader

Brewster, a civil rights leader from Shreveport, was found dead in her home with a gunshot wound to the head over six decades ago. The question remains — was it suicide or murder? Only through thorough investigation and the pursuit of truth, can justice be served in this historical case.