Crime
51-year-old Derek Burpo shot and killed during apparent robbery while delivering pizza in Birmingham
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.
Crime
Armed Man with Reported Mental Health Concerns Arrested inside U.S. Capitol
Police officer suspended after failing to stop an armed man entering the U.S. Capitol.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday, January 21, the United States Capitol Police (USCP) responded to a security alert regarding a man reportedly experiencing mental health issues and suicidal thoughts, who was believed to be armed and in the vicinity of the Capitol.
At approximately 1:15 p.m., USCP officers located the suspect’s vehicle on First Street near East Capitol Street, NE.
A subsequent search of the area determined that the individual had recently entered the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) and participated in a Capitol tour.
At around 2:15 p.m., officers observed the man exiting the Library of Congress following the tour and walking toward his vehicle.
He was intercepted, searched, and taken into custody. A concealed 9mm handgun was discovered in his waistband during the search.
The suspect, identified as 27-year-old James A. Faber of Massachusetts, was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including:
- Unlawful Activities
- Carrying a Pistol Without a License
- Possession of an Unregistered Firearm
- Unlawful Possession of Ammunition
- Resisting Arrest
The case is currently under review by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Following a review of security footage, it was determined that Faber entered the Capitol Visitor Center through the south checkpoint. Although the magnetometer alarm was triggered, an officer conducted a secondary hand search and subsequently allowed him entry into the building.
As a result of this lapse, the officer involved has been placed on administrative suspension pending an internal investigation by the USCP’s Office of Professional Responsibility to assess their performance in handling the security screening.
Authorities have stated that, at this time, there is no indication that Faber intended to harm members of Congress or any individuals within the Capitol complex.
In response to the incident, the USCP has ordered a comprehensive review of security protocols and mandated refresher training for all personnel involved in visitor screening to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“The United States Capitol Police demands the highest standards in security screening procedures to ensure the safety of all individuals within the Capitol complex. A thorough review is already underway to reinforce our protocols and training,” the agency stated.
Thankfully, no injuries were reported in connection with this incident.