Veteran and 'Devoted Father,' 68, Stabbed to Death on New Year’s Eve — and Police Say No One Is in Custody

Loved ones are remembering an Alabama dad, veteran and husband after he was murdered on New Year’s Eve.

Earnest Christion Jr. was killed in a stabbing at a Birmingham residence on Tuesday, Dec. 31, according to a press release from the Birmingham Police Department.

After a 911 call reported the incident around 7 p.m. local time, officers arrived at the home, where they found an adult male, later identified as Christion, 68, “unresponsive suffering from what our officers believed to be a stab wound,” police said.

The U.S. Army veteran was then taken to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead, according to police

The Birmingham Police Department is conducting a homicide investigation. They said that “details are limited in this investigation” and no one is currently in custody.

Remembering Christion, who was nicknamed Rickey, in a statement shared with AL.com, his family said the veteran will be remembered for his humor and caring nature toward everyone he encountered.

“Rickey was more than just a veteran; he was a beacon of joy and love,” read the joint statement from his son, Ernest P. Christion III; daughter-in-law, Jessica Christion and wife, Wanda Sawyer-Christion.

“His sense of humor was infectious, and his ability to keep people smiling, even during difficult times, will always be remembered,” the family continued. “Whether it was a funny joke, a lighthearted comment, or his unwavering positivity, Rickey had a special gift for making those around him feel good.”

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The family added that Christion was a family man at his core, as they praised his dedication as both a father and husband.

“Rickey always made sure Wanda felt treasured and was there for her through every step of their journey together,’’ the family told AL.com, referring to his wife.

“His family was the center of his world, and he cherished each and every moment spent with them,” they added, then noting that he “always” ensured that his kids were “cared for and loved, offering advice, encouragement, and his ever-present warmth.”

“His love for his children was unconditional, and he took immense pride in being a devoted father,” Christion’s family concluded.