A police chase across Interstate 65 led to the capture of Elantra Bass, a 26-year-old murder suspect who’d been evading authorities since skipping court on capital murder charges.
Birmingham police arrested Bass on May 15, 2025, after he fled from a routine traffic stop. The suspect, who was wanted for the 2021 murder of Eric Henderson, attempted to escape by running across I-65 before jumping a fence, where officers successfully apprehended him. Bass had been out on a $100,000 bond when he failed to appear in court for the capital murder charge.
The case stems from a grim revelation in November 2021, when Henderson’s body was found in the pantry of a vacant Birmingham apartment. Investigators determined the victim died from strangulation and blunt force trauma. Bass was initially charged with capital murder following the investigation but had managed to avoid custody after posting bond and subsequently missing his court appearance.
The dramatic pursuit that led to Bass’s capture began when patrol officers recognized him during a traffic stop. Rather than complying with officers’ commands, Bass abandoned his vehicle and attempted to flee on foot. His decision to run across the busy interstate created dangerous conditions for both motorists and pursuing officers before the chase concluded with his arrest.
Following his capture, Bass was transported to Jefferson County Jail, where he’s now being held without bond. The denial of bond reflects the severity of the capital murder charge and his previous failure to appear in court.
The case remains under active investigation as prosecutors prepare for trial. Law enforcement’s successful apprehension of Bass marks a significant development in a case that has remained open since Henderson’s death in 2021.
The Jefferson County District Attorney’s office is proceeding with prosecution while investigators continue gathering additional evidence related to Henderson’s murder. Bass will face charges for both the original capital murder case and new charges stemming from his attempt to evade arrest.
