Shooting near Birmingham HBCU Classic leaves one dead, eight injured

One person died and at least eight others were injured in a shooting Saturday evening near the Magic City Classic in Birmingham, Alabama. The event, described as the largest historically Black college and university football game in the United States, was disrupted by the gunfire in the 400 block of Graymont Avenue.

Birmingham Police Department officers arrived at the scene around 7:50 p.m. and immediately halted all tailgating activities in the area. Investigators reported recovering multiple firearms from the location. One individual was detained and transported to police headquarters for questioning.

As of early Sunday morning, authorities indicated that one victim remained in critical condition. The other seven injured parties were listed in stable condition. No police officers or first responders were hurt during the incident.

Birmingham Police Chief Michael Pickett characterized the event as a senseless act of violence. He noted that the magnitude of the classic places a heavy strain on local law enforcement resources. Pickett stated that other law enforcement leaders quickly offered support and that the department was grateful for the rapid response.

Pickett praised the officers who responded to the scene, describing them as true heroes. He recounted how personnel ran toward the direction of the gunshots while triaging victims and rendering aid. He expressed gratitude that all assisting officers were able to return to their families that night.