Shooting at Birmingham Classic Leaves One Dead

One person died and at least eight others were injured in a Saturday night shooting near the Magic City Classic in Birmingham, Alabama. Authorities called the event the largest historically Black college and university football game in the United States.

Birmingham Police Department officers arrived at the 400 block of Graymont Avenue around 7:50 p.m. They immediately halted all tailgating activities in the area. Investigators recovered several firearms at the scene and took one individual to police headquarters for questioning.

As of early Sunday morning, officials reported that one victim remained in critical condition while seven others were in stable condition. No police officers or first responders were hurt during the incident.

Birmingham Police Chief Michael Pickett labeled the incident a “senseless act of violence.” He noted that the large event places heavy demands on city staff. Pickett stated that other law enforcement leaders quickly offered support, a response he described as grateful.

Pickett praised the responding officers for their actions during the chaos. He said they ran toward the gunfire to triage people and render aid while moving to the source of the shots. He called their display of courage and resilience evidence of their dedication to saving lives. Pickett ended by thanking officers and assisting personnel for making it home to their families that night.