Shooting outside Alabama stadium leaves one dead, eight injured
Police recovered multiple firearms after a shooting near Legion Field during the Magic City Classic, with one suspect arrested in Birmingham.
By Carmen Wojcik ·
College football games in Alabama often draw large crowds that extend well beyond the stadium gates, but the Magic City Classic on Saturday night ended in tragedy just outside the venue. A shooting near Legion Field resulted in one fatality and eight other injuries, according to local law enforcement.
The incident occurred shortly after the game between Alabama A&M and Alabama State concluded. Police Chief Michael Pickett stated that the violence took place primarily outside the stadium grounds rather than inside the facility. He noted that the area remained active with fans and traffic as the event wrapped up.
Officer Darrell Freeman provided specific details on the timeline of the event. He reported that multiple gunshots were heard in the 400 block of Grayman Avenue West at approximately 7:50 p.m. Officers responded to the scene and found several people who had been shot.
Freeman confirmed the final medical status of the victims. One person died from their injuries. One other individual was in critical condition, while the remaining seven victims were listed in stable condition. The police cordoned off the area to secure ballistic evidence.
Investigators recovered several firearms from the scene and transported them to the evidence storage facility. Police also arrested one suspect, who was taken to the Birmingham police station for questioning. Freeman described the situation as ongoing, noting that the case remains open as detectives gather more information.
Birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin addressed the community through social media, describing residents as hurt, shocked, and rightfully angry. He stated that no argument or misunderstanding justifies the level of violence that occurred during a celebration night. Woodfin emphasized that the community would not let fear break its spirit and vowed to pursue swift justice for the victims.
The mayor highlighted the family traditions associated with the game, expressing condolences to the neighbors suffering from the loss. He committed to keeping the community united while the investigation proceeds. Law enforcement continues to work on the case to identify all parties involved in the shooting.
