Birmingham Police report one death, eight injuries at Magic City Classic

One person died and at least eight others were injured in a shooting Saturday night near the Magic City Classic in Birmingham, Alabama, according to local authorities.

Birmingham Police Chief Michael Pickett confirmed the casualty count as of early Sunday morning. The department reported that one victim remained in critical condition while seven others were stable. No police officers or first responders were hurt in the incident.

Officers responded to the 400 block of Graymont Avenue around 7:50 p.m. The Birmingham Police Department suspended all tailgating in the area upon arrival. Investigators stated that multiple firearms were recovered from the scene. One individual was detained and transported to police headquarters for questioning.

The Magic City Classic is the largest historically Black college and university football game in the United States. Pickett described the shooting as a senseless act of violence. He noted that the event places a heavy load on local law enforcement resources.

“Other leaders in law enforcement recognize that and they quickly offered up support and we are grateful for that quick response,” Pickett said. He added that officers displayed courage by running toward the gunfire to triage and aid victims.

Pickett stated that all responding officers and assisting personnel were able to return to their families that evening.