Birmingham Community Mourns After Mass Shooting Claims Four Lives
Birmingham, AL – The vibrant energy of the Five Points South entertainment district was shattered on Saturday night when a mass shooting left four people dead and numerous others injured. The city is grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event that struck just before midnight.
Victims Identified
Authorities have released the name of the fourth victim, Roderick Lynn Patterson Jr., a 26-year-old Birmingham resident, who succumbed to his injuries at UAB Hospital shortly after the shooting. He joins Anitra Holloman, 21, Tahj Booker, 27, and Carlos McCain, 27, who were pronounced dead at the scene. All four have left behind grieving families and friends.
Details of the Incident
The chaos erupted around 11 p.m. when multiple 911 calls alerted police to gunfire. Officers quickly determined that the situation was dire, marking it as a mass casualty incident. Witnesses reported that many victims were in line outside Hush lounge when the shots rang out, indicating the suddenness of the attack. Responders were met with pandemonium as people scrambled to locate loved ones amidst the confusion.
Response from Authorities
In total, 17 individuals were reported injured, ranging from non-life-threatening injuries to critical conditions. Officer Truman Fitzgerald reported that four of the surviving victims are facing life-threatening injuries. Patients were transported to several local hospitals, including UAB Hospital, Princeton Baptist Medical Center, Brookwood Medical Center, and St. Vincent’s.
Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service dispatched 15 units, with more than 50 personnel on the scene to assist. Authorities quickly established a cordoned-off perimeter, trying to gain control over the unfolding chaos. More than 100 shell casings were collected, indicating a barrage of fire during the incident. Chief Scott Thurmond mentioned that it appears one of the victims was specifically targeted, which may have turned a calculated act into a tragic scene for so many others.
Community Reaction
The Birmingham community is reeling from the violence, as local leaders and residents mourn the loss of young lives. This shooting marks a grave moment in what has been an alarming year for Birmingham, with 123 homicides reported in 2024 and three significant mass casualty events already occurring.
Investigation Ongoing
As the investigation into this horrific event continues, police have yet to make any arrests. They believe that machine gun conversion devices were used in the shooting, leading to the rapid-fire barrage that injured and killed innocent bystanders. The department is asking anyone with information to step forward, urging residents to call detectives at 205-254-1764 or report tips to Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
Press Conference Announcement
A press conference is scheduled for this morning, where authorities will provide additional updates on the investigation and its current progress. The community awaits further information, hoping for justice for the victims and their families.
As Birmingham faces yet another tragedy, the heartfelt condolences of the city are with those affected by the violence, as they come together to support one another in this time of grief.
