Two Men Fatally Shot in Southwest Birmingham in Violent Night

BIRMINGHAM, AL – A violent night in southwest Birmingham resulted in the tragic deaths of two men in separate shootings just hours apart. The victims, identified as 26-year-old Malike Williams and 34-year-old Damone Gardner, were killed in incidents police believe may be connected.

The first shooting occurred around 5 p.m. on Tuesday when Malike Williams was shot during an altercation, which authorities suspect was related to a dispute over a social media post. Williams was transported to UAB Hospital but, despite efforts by medical personnel, he did not survive. Police have not yet disclosed the full details surrounding the conflict that led to the fatal shooting.

Just four hours later, police were alerted to gunfire through the city’s Shot Spotter technology. Officers responded to the scene, a short distance from the earlier incident, and found Damone Gardner lying unresponsive in the middle of the road. Gardner was pronounced dead on the scene, adding to the night’s grim toll.

Authorities are currently investigating the possibility that the two shootings are linked. Witnesses have suggested that the incidents may have stemmed from a personal conflict that escalated into violence. However, investigators are still working to confirm whether there is a direct connection between the two homicides.

The killings of Williams and Gardner bring Birmingham’s homicide count to 125 this year, marking a troubling rise in violent crime. In just 72 hours, seven people have been killed in the city, including four victims in a mass shooting earlier in the week. The recent surge in violence has heightened concern among law enforcement and the local community.

As police continue their investigation, they are urging anyone with information about the shootings to come forward. Birmingham detectives can be contacted at 205-254-1764, and anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. Authorities are hopeful that community members will assist in providing leads that could help solve the cases.

In the wake of these back-to-back tragedies, Birmingham residents are left reeling from the escalation in violence. City officials are calling for increased vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and the community to prevent further bloodshed and ensure justice for the victims and their families.