One Dead, Eight Wounded in Postgame Shooting at Legion Field

One person died and eight others sustained injuries in a shooting outside Legion Field in Birmingham, Alabama.

The incident occurred just before 8 p.m. Central Time on Saturday, November 1, shortly after the final whistle of the Magic City Classic football game. Alabama A&M defeated Alabama State by a score of 31 to 28 in front of more than 70,000 spectators. Gunfire was reported near the intersection of Graymont Avenue West and Fourth Street West, where fans and vendors were gathered for postgame activities.

Birmingham Police Chief Michael Pickett confirmed the death toll and the number of injured during a press conference. He described the incident as two separate acts of violence. Pickett noted that the shooting took place in a crowded area but expressed gratitude that the casualty count was lower given the size of the crowd.

Police officer De'Rell Freeman stated that one individual was detained and taken to police headquarters. Investigators recovered multiple weapons from the scene. The Bureau of Investigation is assisting local authorities with the case. Pickett requested that any public with video or audio footage of the event submit it to the department.

Pickett emphasized the need for the community to address recurring incidents of violence. He praised the bravery of his officers, describing them as they moved toward the sound of gunshots to secure the area. The chief asked witnesses to come forward with any information, no matter how small it may seem.

Birmingham police issued an order for residents and fans to leave the vicinity of the stadium just before 9 p.m. local time. Emergency personnel responded to multiple calls regarding the shooting. The investigation remains active as authorities review evidence and interviews.

The shooting happened after a nearly sold out crowd watched the final minutes of the game. The two universities are located in the state and compete in the region. Police have not yet released the names of the victims. The suspect remains in custody at police headquarters.