BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A 17-year-old male remains in critical condition after being shot near Woodlawn High School on Tuesday night. The victim has been identified as Gerald Lomax, a student-athlete at Jackson-Olin High School. The shooting occurred around 9:50 p.m. on November 12, 2024, when Birmingham Police responded to reports of gunfire on the 5600 block of 1st Avenue North.
Lomax was leaving a basketball game with a friend when an argument escalated, leading to an unknown suspect firing multiple shots into their vehicle. The driver sought help at Woodlawn High School, but no suspects are currently in custody.
This incident is part of a troubling trend in Birmingham, where the homicide rate is approaching record levels. As of mid-November, the city has recorded 138 homicides, surpassing last year’s total and nearing the recent high of 153 in 2022. Community members express frustration over the violence, with local residents calling for action to curb the rising crime.
Mayor Randall Woodfin emphasized the need for stricter laws and community efforts to address the root causes of gun violence. The city has averaged over 14 homicides per month, highlighting an urgent need for intervention. Authorities urge anyone with information about recent shootings to contact Birmingham Police or Crime Stoppers.