Shocking Violence Strikes Birmingham’s Kingston Community

Emergency response teams at the scene of a violent shooting in Birmingham's Kingston community.

News Summary

A heartbreaking incident in Birmingham’s Kingston community left a 22-year-old man, Demarious Antwon Cherry, shot and killed during a violent shootout. As the community mourns his tragic death, concerns about rising gun violence continue to escalate. Witnesses reported hearing over 40 shots, leaving residents frightened and searching for answers amidst growing tensions.

Shocking Violence Strikes Birmingham’s Kingston Community

In a heartbreaking incident that has left the Kingston community of Birmingham reeling, a 22-year-old man named Demarious Antwon Cherry was shot and killed on the night of February 5, 2025. The shooting unfolded around 9:40 p.m. in the 4600 block of Roscoe Avenue, which is part of the Rev. Dr. Morrell Todd Homes.

A Routine Errand Turns Tragic

Demarious was simply running an errand for his aunt, making a quick trip to the store, when he found himself in the middle of a violent shootout. According to family members, he was an innocent bystander, caught in a terrifying situation that no one ever expects to encounter in their peaceful neighborhood. Imagine this young man, likely just thinking about getting home safely, when suddenly, chaos erupted all around him.

Eyewitness accounts suggest that a staggering 40 shots rang out during the chaos, with multiple calibers of weapons being used in the melee. This shocking level of violence is a grim reflection of the rising trend in gun-related incidents that has been troubling Birmingham in recent times.

A Community on Edge

Residents from the area spoke about their fear during the unfortunate occurrence. As gunfire echoed through the densely populated neighborhood, many sought refuge, scrambling to find safety in whatever nook or cranny they could find. The sound of gunfire was so intense that an officer from the nearby South Precinct described it as a massive shootout, an alarming indicator of the danger lurking in the area.

In the aftermath of the shooting, police arrived on the scene to discover Cherry lying near a set of steps at the end of an apartment building. Sadly, he was pronounced dead shortly after 10 p.m. by the Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service, leaving a family and a community in profound mourning.

A Heartbroken Family

As news of Demarious’s tragic death spread, a crowd formed near the scene, only to scatter hastily as law enforcement began their investigation. Family members were devastated, particularly his mother, who expressed heartache over losing her son in such a violent manner. No parent should have to experience the pain of burying their child, and the loss of such a young life has resonated deeply within the Kingston community.

Demarious was known for his kind and gentle nature. He graduated from Dupuy Alternative School, and family members emphasized he was quiet and caring, a person who never owned a gun. The heartbreaking reality is that he became a victim of a dangerous cycle of violence that is increasingly becoming an alarming issue in many communities.

Searching for Answers

As the investigation is still in its early phases, the Birmingham police are actively working to piece together what unfolded that fateful night. They have not yet identified any suspects, but they are meticulously reviewing surveillance footage from the Housing Authority’s monitoring systems in hopes of gathering clues.

This tragic incident marks the 13th homicide in Birmingham for the year 2025, highlighting a concerning trend of gun violence that has affected countless families and neighbors. In fact, Cherry’s death is the fifth homicide in just a week, an alarming statistic that raises questions about safety and security in the community. While police have made strides in apprehending suspects in previous cases, the community still grapples with the ramifications of this latest shooting.

Community Support and Mourning

In response to this heartbreaking loss, a GoFundMe page has been created to help cover Cherry’s funeral expenses, showcasing just how loved and cherished he was by those who knew him. Friends, family, and neighbors are rallying together, highlighting the collective grief felt over the loss of such a bright and loving young man.

Authorities are calling on anyone who might have information about the shooting to step forward and assist detectives or reach out to Crime Stoppers. The community’s vigilance is crucial in the fight against the rising tide of violence, as we all strive for a safer, more peaceful Birmingham.