1 dead, 8 injured in Alabama shooting after football game, police say
At least one person was killed and eight others were injured in a shooting after a football game in Birmingham, Alabama, on Saturday, law enforcement said.
At least one person was detained in connection with the shooting, according to the Birmingham Police Department.
"Shortly after 7:50 p.m., multiple shots rang out in the 400 block of Grayman Avenue West, officers responded and located multiple gunshot victims," Officer Darrell Freeman said during a press conference.
Freeman said nine people had been hit by gunfire, including "at least one being confirmed deceased." Another of the injured was in critical condition, he added, and seven others were in stable condition.
"Multiple firearms were recovered from the scene by officers and turned into our property room," Freeman said. "One person has been detained and transported to the Birmingham Police Headquarters for questioning. This is an active scene with developing information."
The shooting was near Legion Field, which hosted the Magic City Classic college football game earlier on Saturday between Alabama A&M and Alabama State.
"This did occur after the game," Chief Michael Pickett said. "For the most part, it was off of the property."
In a statement posted on social media, Birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin said the shooting left him and the community "hurt, shaken and rightfully angry."
"There is no argument, no beef, no misunderstanding that can justify this level of senseless violence during a night of celebration," Woodfin said. "But hear me clearly: We refuse to let fear shake the spirit of this community. Justice will be served to those who brought harm to those at one of our most treasured events."
The mayor noted that the Magic City Classic is rooted in the traditions of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), including the "traditions of family."
"Tonight, as a family, we grieve. We wrap our arms around neighbors who are dealing with unimaginable pain right now. And just like family, we will stand united as we overcome this tragic night," Woodfin said. "While this crime is under an active investigation, we will not let up until we achieve swift justice for this senseless violence."
