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.
HOUSTON – A large law enforcement response was launched Monday afternoon following reports of an active shooter near the Harris County criminal justice complex in Downtown Houston.
According to authorities, the incident began shortly after 12:30 p.m. near 1115 Congress Street, in the vicinity of the Harris County Family Law Center.
Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots — with some accounts estimating as many as 30 rounds fired in rapid succession.
More than 40 officers from the Houston Police Department, including members of HPD Special Operations, converged on the scene.
Officials confirmed that a Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) deputy was shot in the shoulder during the exchange.
The deputy was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment and is reported to be in stable condition.
The suspect, who exchanged gunfire with officers, was also struck multiple times.
Authorities confirmed that the individual was taken into custody at the scene and is currently receiving medical care.
The identity and motive of the suspect have not yet been disclosed.
It remains unclear whether the shooting took place inside or outside the courthouse building.
A witness employed with the juvenile probation department told that they heard at least eight shots ring out near the courthouse.
Another witness, present at the courthouse for jury duty, said they were instructed to “get down on the floor and cover their heads” during the lockdown.
The area surrounding the courthouse was immediately cordoned off by law enforcement, and the public is being urged to avoid the area as the investigation continues.
Multiple agencies are working jointly to secure the scene and gather evidence.
Further updates are expected as officials release more information regarding the suspect’s condition, possible charges, and the circumstances leading up to the shooting.