Alabama Man Faces Charges for Family Murders

An Alabama man, Thomas Henry Steele, 47, stands accused of two capital murders involving family members. The tragic incident occurred on October 12 at a home on Carolina Court in Mobile, where Steele allegedly decapitated his aunt, Christy Deloach, 65, and grandmother, Dora Boone, 85, with a chainsaw.

Following a 911 call from a relative concerned about Steele’s behavior, authorities found the victims’ bodies. Before the murders, Steele had ceased taking prescribed medication and displayed unusual behavior, such as giving away personal items and expressing a desire to ‘live for God.’

Steele faced a bond hearing on October 13. During the court session, he allegedly instructed a judge to kill his court-appointed attorney, Glenn Davidson, prompting the judge to order a mental competency evaluation. Currently, Steele is held without bond at a secure medical facility where he is receiving treatment aimed at restoring his competency for trial proceedings. The evaluation is expected to take up to 90 days, as managed by the Alabama Department of Mental Health.

Tara Zieman, representing the Mobile County District Attorney’s Office, stated the prosecution is awaiting the mental health evaluation results before concluding whether to proceed with additional charges related to the alleged courtroom threat. Zieman emphasized that even if found competent, the prosecution will continue efforts to ensure Steele remains held without bond.

In the community, Deloach was known for her 15-year tenure at Mr. Sam’s Hair Fashions in Mobile, as described by the salon owner, Lenny Zanghi. He lauded her as a ‘beautiful person’ and friend. The Boone family had purchased the residence in 2014, and neighbors recalled Deloach as a kind individual active in local events. She had been caring for her mother, Dora, after the passing of her father, Phillip Boone.

Steele is set for arraignment on November 19 before Judge Jay York in Mobile County Circuit Court.