Crime
26-year-old Johndarius Ward killed after shooting outside Boston Fish Supreme in Birmingham
The suspect opened fire on Ward’s vehicle and then fled the scene.
A tragic shooting incident occurred early Saturday morning in Birmingham, resulting in one fatality and one serious injury.
The shooting took place outside two businesses in the 800 block of Third Avenue West, which had previously been labeled by city officials as a “launching pad for criminal activity.”
The victim, identified as 26-year-old Johndarius Decareious Ward of Birmingham, was found unresponsive inside a vehicle.
He was pronounced dead at the scene by Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service.
Approximately two dozen shell casings were found surrounding Ward’s sedan, which was parked in front of Boston Fish Supreme. Another cluster of shell casings was located near the front door of the Shell station.
According to police investigations, Ward was attempting to leave the parking lot when he was ambushed by the shooter.
The suspect opened fire on Ward’s vehicle and then fled the scene.
While officers were responding to the shooting, they learned that an additional victim had arrived at Princeton Baptist Medical Center with life-threatening injuries.
The injured individual was transferred to UAB Hospital for further treatment.
The Birmingham Police Department is actively investigating the incident and seeking the public’s assistance in identifying and apprehending the suspect.
Crime
Erik Spencer killed after shooting at shopping center in Jefferson City
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Hundreds of students and community members are mourning the death of Erik Spencer, who was fatally shot at a shopping center in Jefferson City on November 1.
Authorities have confirmed Spencer’s death but have not yet released details regarding the individual responsible for the shooting.
Multiple witness accounts suggest the shooter may have been a white male, reportedly described by some as a possible off-duty police officer.
According to witnesses, the incident occurred as Erik and his girlfriend were leaving a store when a verbal argument broke out between them.
The male individual allegedly intervened, despite being told that the situation was under control.
Moments later, witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, striking Erik.
Friends and witnesses at the scene stated that Erik did not pose any threat to the shooter and that the confrontation escalated unnecessarily.
Law enforcement agencies have not confirmed the shooter’s identity, whether he is affiliated with law enforcement, or if he has been detained or turned himself in.
The Jefferson City Police Department and local investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Community members have since gathered for vigils and memorials to honor Erik’s memory as the investigation remains active and ongoing.
