Birmingham Man Shot and Killed While Delivering Pizza

News Summary

On New Year’s Day, Birmingham, Alabama, experienced a tragic loss as 51-year-old Derek Marcus Burpo, a Domino’s pizza deliveryman, was fatally shot during a delivery. The incident occurred outside his vehicle while he was fulfilling his job, leaving the community in shock and mourning. Authorities have yet to make any arrests in connection with this heartbreaking crime, which has unsettled many in the area and sparked calls for justice.

Birmingham Man Tragically Shot and Killed While Delivering Pizza on New Year’s Day

Birmingham, Alabama, welcomed 2025 in the most heart-wrenching way possible, as the community mourns the loss of a beloved local, 51-year-old Derek Marcus Burpo. This dedicated Domino’s pizza deliveryman met a tragic fate on January 1st, while simply doing his job—delivering joy in the form of pizzas. What was meant to be a celebratory occasion took a shocking turn when Burpo was shot and killed during an apparent robbery.

A Day of Celebration Turns to Tragedy

Burpo was making a routine delivery when he was found unresponsive outside his car on Roebuck Drive. Birmingham Fire and Rescue arrived on the scene, but unfortunately, they pronounced him dead at 9:42 p.m., leaving the city in utter disbelief. His car was filled with pizzas meant for hungry families, illustrating that he was just a simple man trying to earn a living.

As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with this devastating crime. Police officials described this act as one of the most heartbreaking homicides the city has witnessed, underscoring how senseless this violence truly is.

A Life Well-Lived

Born in 1973, Burpo graduated from Huffman High School in 1991 and continued his education at Alabama State University. He obtained his MBA and was even working toward a Ph.D., a shining example of dedication—not just to his job at Domino’s, where he worked tirelessly six days a week from 4 p.m. until closing, but to his education and family as well.

Known affectionately as “Dink” to his family, Burpo was more than just a hardworking employee; he was a devoted caretaker for his elderly mother. Friends and family painted a picture of a kind and compassionate man who went out of his way to ensure the happiness of those around him. Just recently, he surprised his mother with roses and perfume—small gestures that spoke volumes about his love and support for her during her golden years.

Community in Mourning

The ripple effect of Burpo’s death has been felt throughout the entire community. Following the tragic event, the Roebuck Domino’s restaurant was closed as employees took time to grieve the loss of their cherished colleague. Even Chris Daugherty, the owner of Burpo’s location, expressed the deep sorrow that enveloped the workplace, stating it felt unreal that a dedicated worker like Burpo could be taken from them so suddenly.

The family is now left navigating unimaginable grief while also seeking justice for their lost loved one. Burpo’s passing has left emotional scars not only on his family but also on friends and coworkers who knew him as a shining light in their lives. Birmingham police are urging anyone with information to step forward and contact them or Crime Stoppers, hoping to shed light on this tragic case.

A Call for Justice

This senseless act reminds us all of the importance of compassion, kindness, and community. As the investigation continues, the desire for justice grows stronger. Burpo may be gone, but his legacy of love and dedication will surely live on in the hearts of those he touched. Birmingham is rallying together in remembrance of a man who, even in his death, continues to inspire unity and love within the community.

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Additional Resources

• AL.com: Birmingham Man Tragically Shot and Killed While Delivering Pizza on New Year’s Day
• Wikipedia: Domino’s
• Detroit Free Press: Home Instead Named Top Workplace
• Personnel Today: Breaking Wind at Younger Colleague was Age Discrimination
• Birmingham Times: March 13, 2025