BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A man was shot and killed early Wednesday morning in a parking lot on the 1400 block of Third Avenue West, adding another tragic incident to the city’s growing list of homicides. The victim, identified as 30-year-old Ta’Darrius Omar Debodre Jones, was found lying face down when officers from the West Precinct responded to a report of a shooting at approximately 12:23 a.m.
According to initial investigations, multiple people were gathered in the plaza when an unknown assailant approached Jones, fired several shots, and fled the scene. By the time Birmingham Fire and Rescue Services arrived, Jones had already succumbed to his injuries, and paramedics pronounced him dead on site.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as police cordoned off the area and began their investigation. Despite the presence of several people, no arrests have been made, and police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
“This is an ongoing investigation, and we are working tirelessly to gather all available evidence and interview witnesses,” a Birmingham Police Department spokesperson said. “Anyone with information is encouraged to contact our Homicide Unit or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.”
This marks Birmingham’s 60th homicide investigation of 2024, not including seven justifiable death investigations. The shooting underscores the city’s ongoing struggle with gun violence, which has claimed multiple lives this year. Authorities have heightened patrols in the area as they continue to search for clues.
As the investigation unfolds, Birmingham police have reiterated their commitment to curbing the rise in violent crime, particularly in hotspots like the Third Avenue West area.
The public is urged to call the Birmingham Police Department at (205) 254-1764 or Crime Stoppers at (205) 254-7777 with any leads that could help identify the suspect responsible for this violent act.
Authorities are also looking into whether the plaza’s security cameras captured footage of the suspect, although details of the ongoing investigation remain limited.
Jones’ death has added to the growing tally of Birmingham’s violent crimes this year, fueling ongoing debates about policing strategies and public safety in the city.
The suspect remains at large, and police have said they are