Crime
2 Shot Dead Hours Apart in Birmingham, Detectives Investigating Possible Link
Birmingham, AL – A violent night in southwest Birmingham left two men dead. The victims have been identified as Malike Williams, 26, and Damone Gardner, 34.
The first incident occurred around 5 PM, when Williams was fatally shot during a dispute possibly related to a social media post. He was transported to UAB Hospital but did not survive.
The second shooting took place less than four hours later, just a short distance away. Gardner was found unresponsive in the middle of the road after a Shot Spotter alert triggered a police response. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police believe the two shootings may be connected and are investigating the possibility of a link between the victims. Witnesses suggest that a personal conflict escalated into violence in both cases.
The homicides mark the 124th and 125th deaths in Birmingham this year.
The city has experienced a surge in violence, with seven people killed in less than 72 hours, including four victims of a mass shooting.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about either homicide to contact Birmingham detectives at 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
CHICAGO, IL — A man was found shot to death Friday night on Chicago’s South Side, prompting a homicide investigation by Area One detectives, according to the Chicago Police Department.
Officers responded to reports of gunfire in the 900 block of West 63rd Parkway in the Englewood neighborhood at approximately 10:00 p.m.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a 36-year-old male victim suffering from gunshot wounds to the head and neck.
Emergency medical personnel were called to the scene, but the victim was pronounced dead on arrival.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office later identified him as Emerald Pretty, age 36.
According to preliminary information, a male suspect exited a white sedan, approached the victim, and opened fire before fleeing the scene in the same vehicle.
No arrests have been made at this time, and Area One detectives are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Authorities have not released details on a possible motive or whether the incident may have been targeted.
Police are urging anyone with information to contact the Chicago Police Department’s Area One Bureau of Detectives or submit an anonymous tip through CPD’s tip line or Crime Stoppers.