Murder suspect claims self defense

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - A murder suspect who was arrested following a standoff with police Saturday said he acted in self defense.  In fact, Grady McClendon had a lot to say to reporters on his way to Metro Jail.

As he was led from police headquarters Saturday, 34-year-old Grady McClendon didn't hesitate to tell reporters what sparked the deadly shooting last month.

“Robbery, it was a robbery. Man tried to shoot me in the head, all I did was defend myself," McClendon said.

Investigators said 22-year-old Jamal Little was shot and killed outside a fast food restaurant on Dauphin Street on December 2.  Police found Little's body inside his vehicle. 

According to police, the two men knew each other. 

McClendon said he only met Little once.

“He shot at my head. He shot at my head,” said McClendon.
When asked if he had any regrets, McClendon responded, “that I didn't shoot myself this morning.”

Police said McClendon barricaded himself inside his girlfriend’s home on Sweetwater Road in Chunchula when officers showed up Saturday.   According to officials, the stand-off lasted several hours, with McClendon firing several shots.

"We were able to safely get Mr. McClendon's girlfriend from the home and able to arrest McClendon," Public Information Officer Ashley Rain said.

Neighbors said they didn't know what was going on.

"She's only been there about six months as far as I know.  What about him? I ain't never heard or seen him ever here before," Christopher Jordan said.

Officers said McClendon told them he's homeless.  He continued to shout statements to reporters even after he was placed in the patrol car.

"Self defense. I been insane ever since,” said McClendon. “The man tried to kill me, and it's going to ruin my life. No justice in this world."

Alabama court records show McClendon has traffic arrests in  several cities in central Alabama, and he plead guilty to theft of property in Georgia in 2011.