Shooting at Magic City Classic leaves one dead and eight hurt in Birmingham

One person died and at least eight others were injured in a shooting Saturday night near the Magic City Classic in Birmingham, Alabama. The event, held by historically Black colleges and universities, draws the largest crowds for that type of football game in the United States.

Birmingham Police Department officers arrived at the 400 block of Graymont Avenue around 7:50 p.m. They immediately halted all tailgating activity in the surrounding area. Investigators found multiple guns at the scene. One person was detained and taken to police headquarters for questioning. No officers or first responders were hurt during the incident.

By early Sunday morning, officials reported that one victim remained in critical condition. The other seven injured individuals were listed in stable condition. Police Chief Michael Pickett called the incident a senseless act of violence. He noted that the event places a heavy strain on city personnel.

Pickett said other law enforcement leaders quickly offered support for the response. He described his officers as true heroes. He recalled them running toward the direction of the gunshots while triaging people they passed. He said they rendered aid to those hurt while moving closer to the gunfire source.

Pickett expressed gratitude that all officers and assisting personnel could return home to their families after the night's events. The police department is continuing its review of the shooting at the major college football gathering.

The next step involves the release of further details on the detained individual and the condition of the critical patient.