Mass Shooting Leaves Four Dead, 18 Wounded in Birmingham’s Nightlife District

A mass shooting in Birmingham, Alabama's nightlife district left four people dead and 18 wounded. Police believe the incident targeted a specific individual and was not random. Authorities are conducting a large search for the suspects, urging the public for tips.

In a tragic incident, a mass shooting occurred in Birmingham, Alabama, resulting in four fatalities and 18 wounded in the popular Five Points South entertainment district, police reported early Sunday. Many of the victims were caught in the crossfire.

The shooting took place just after 11 pm on Saturday. Officer Truman Fitzgerald confirmed that officers discovered two men and a woman with gunshot wounds on the sidewalk. These individuals were pronounced dead at the scene. Another male victim succumbed to his injuries at a hospital.

A preliminary investigation indicates that "multiple suspects fired upon a large group of people who were outside in a public area," according to police.

"Detectives believe the shooting was not random and arose from an isolated incident where multiple victims were caught in the crossfire," Fitzgerald stated. Injured individuals subsequently presented themselves at local hospitals, with 18 victims identified by early Sunday, some sustaining life-threatening injuries.

Authorities suggest the intended target was among the deceased, Police Chief Scott Thurmond disclosed on Sunday morning. "The suspects exited a vehicle, opened fire, then fled the scene," Thurmond said. Despite an extensive search, no arrests have been made so far. Birmingham police have requested assistance from federal law enforcement agencies and have called for public cooperation in providing tips.

"We are committed to uncovering, identifying, and apprehending those responsible for this heinous act," Fitzgerald emphasized.

The Five Points South area, known for its bustling entertainment venues, restaurants, and bars, typically sees large crowds on Saturday nights.

(With inputs from agencies.)