Rep. Sewell says that the senseless violence must stop after four killed and 17 wounded in latest Birmingham mass shooting

September 22, 2024 – Birmingham - 21 people were shot – four of them fatally – in a mass shooting at a night club at Birmingham's Five Points South. Congresswoman Terri A Sewell (D-AL07) released a statement following Saturday night's shooting.

"I am heartbroken by last night's horrific mass shooting in Five Points South," said Rep. Sewell. "I join in extending my sincere condolences to the families whose loved ones were lost, and I pray for a full and speedy recovery for those injured."

"We are grateful to the police and first responders, as well as our county, state, and federal partners for their quick response," Sewell continued. "My staff and I are closely following the situation, and we stand ready to assist the city in any way that we can."

"This senseless violence is unacceptable and it must stop," Sewell stated. "We as elected officials must do all that we can, at every level of government, to break the cycle of violence, get dangerous weapons off our streets, and make our communities safer. Please join me in keeping the entire Birmingham community in your prayers at this difficult time."

Authorities investigating the shooting told reporters that they are investigating the slaying as a possible paid for killing. Law enforcement is engaged in an active search for the four suspects.

Over 100 shell casings were found at the scene. Birmingham Police Chief Scott Thurman speculate that the shooters used federally illegal Glock switches to convert their semiautomatic handguns to fully automatic. One woman and three men were slain.

Most of the victims were lined up on the street waiting to get into the Hush Hookah/Cigar Lounge – a popular Five Points South night spot.

Police say that multiple shooters drove up in a vehicle, exited the vehicle, and opened fire in what police believe was a targeted attack, with numerous persons caught in the crossfire.

Birmingham is one of the most dangerous cities in the country. Violent drug gangs operate openly throughout large portions of the city and gun violence is commonplace. The city is not a safe entertainment destination. The shooting occurred around 11:00 p.m. so a midnight curfew would likely have been ineffective.

The state of Alabama needs more prison beds, longer prison terms, and expedited executions to deal with the worsening crime situation; but those solutions all cost money and politicians would rather spend money on roads or schools than on public safety.

Terri Sewell is in her seventh term representing Alabama's Seventh Congressional District – which includes much of the City of Birmingham.

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