Birmingham, AL – A 51-year-old man delivering pizza in east Birmingham was fatally shot during what appears to be a robbery on Wednesday night, marking the city’s first homicide of 2025.

The incident occurred around 9:45 p.m. in the 400 block of Roebuck Drive. Authorities have identified the victim as Derek Marcus Burpo, a Birmingham resident.

Burpo was discovered lying on the ground near his vehicle, which still contained pizzas he was delivering. Tragically, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officer Truman Fitzgerald of the Birmingham Police Department expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “It’s horrible that Mr. Burpo was killed so violently while out trying to make an honest living,” Fitzgerald said.

“This is one of the most heartbreaking homicides we have witnessed. They robbed a family of their loved one.”

Police are actively investigating whether the robbery was premeditated or a crime of opportunity. Detectives have interviewed residents of the home near where the shooting occurred, as well as neighbors in the surrounding area.

Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, but no suspects have been identified at this time.

Fitzgerald urged anyone with information to come forward, stating, “We need the community’s help to bring justice to Mr. Burpo’s family.”

This tragedy comes on the heels of a record-breaking year of violence in Birmingham.

The city ended 2024 with 151 homicides, surpassing a record set in 1933. Burpo’s death is also part of a troubling trend in Jefferson County, which has already seen two additional fatal shootings in Graysville and Bessemer since the start of the new year.

Police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact Birmingham homicide detectives at 205-254-1764. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.

The Birmingham Police Department continues to emphasize the importance of community cooperation in solving violent crimes and preventing further loss of life.