Arrest made in Thomasville murder

THOMASVILLE, Ala. (WALA) - Thomasville officials said Friday they have made an arrest in the murder of businesswoman Fredia Collins.

They have arrested Jarvis Culpepper and charged him with capital murder. Collins was found in her insurance agency office Monday night.

Mayor Sheldon Day said investigators received a tip last night and early this morning, Culpepper was arrested.

“Right after I asked for your prayers earlier tonight, we got a break in the case,” wrote Day in a Facebook post.

Although authorities haven't revealed details surrounding the arrest, they said they have recovered the murder weapon. And say Culpeper lived just blocks away from Collins office in downtown Thomasville.

Authorities say Culpepper is a long-time Thomasville resident.

Prosecutors said they'll ask for the grand jury to indict Culpepper for murdering during the course of a robbery, and during the course of a burglary.

Collins’ brother-in-law, James Collins, spoke to FOX10 News about the arrest.  

"It’s not going to solve the hurt and the pain. That is something only time can correct. But we are going to make it through. With God's help, with his provisions, we are going to make it through,” said Collins.

In a candid moment during the news conference, the mayor spoke directly to Collins family.

“I wish we could have done more. From a personal standpoint, but we did all we could do.  We will continue to be by your side, this town, shoulder to shoulder, hand to hand,” said Day.  

Collins was found shot to death in her downtown insurance office on Monday . Officials told us earlier in the week a number of tips had come into the office.