Crime
Officer-Involved Shooting Reported in Des Moines
DES MOINES, Iowa — The Des Moines Police Department is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Thursday afternoon on the city’s north side following a reported stabbing.
Officers were dispatched shortly before 4 p.m. to the 1900 block of Carpenter Avenue after receiving a report that a security officer had been stabbed at 1914 Carpenter Ave., according to a department news release.
The address is home to the Polk County Life Services Center and Broadlawns Behavioral Health Urgent Care.
Upon arrival, officers encountered an individual believed to be responsible for the stabbing.
During that encounter, at least one officer discharged their firearm, striking the suspect.
Authorities have not yet released specific details regarding what led to the use of force.
Emergency medical personnel responded to the scene and transported both the injured security officer and the suspect to local hospitals.
Police stated that both individuals are currently listed in critical condition.
It remains unclear whether any officers were injured during the incident.
Officials emphasized that the information released thus far is preliminary and subject to change as the investigation progresses.
The area surrounding Carpenter Avenue is expected to have an increased police presence while investigators process the scene and gather evidence.
The investigation remains active and ongoing.
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama — A 35-year-old man has died after being shot inside a residence in Birmingham early Thursday morning, prompting a homicide investigation by local authorities.
The victim was identified as Ralen Jerean McCurdy, according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office. McCurdy was found unresponsive inside a home in the 4300 block of 12th Court North after police responded to reports of gunfire and an injured person shortly after 1:40 a.m.
Despite the response from emergency personnel, McCurdy did not survive his injuries. Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service personnel pronounced him dead at approximately 2:04 a.m.
According to authorities, officers assigned to Birmingham Police Department’s South Precinct were dispatched to the area shortly after 1:40 a.m. Thursday following a ShotSpotter alert and a report of an injured individual.
When officers arrived at the residence, they discovered McCurdy unresponsive inside the home. Emergency responders subsequently confirmed his death at the scene.
The circumstances leading up to the shooting have not yet been publicly established.
Birmingham police detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding McCurdy’s death. Authorities have not announced any arrests, and no suspect information or possible motive was included in the details released.
Investigators will continue working to determine what happened inside the residence and identify anyone who may have been involved. Additional information may be released as the investigation progresses.
McCurdy’s death marks Birmingham’s fourth homicide since Saturday, according to the information provided. The latest fatal shooting adds to a difficult stretch for the city and leaves another family grieving the loss of a loved one.
At 35 years old, McCurdy’s life ended in a violent incident that remains under investigation. His death is a painful loss for his family, friends, and everyone who knew him.
As detectives continue their work, loved ones are left to remember McCurdy while waiting for answers about the circumstances that led to his death.
May Ralen Jerean McCurdy rest in peace. May his family and friends find strength, comfort, and support during this heartbreaking time.