Authorities are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred late Sunday afternoon in a southwest Birmingham neighborhood, leaving one man dead and prompting an active police investigation.
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as 59-year-old Richard Dwayne Freeman, a Birmingham resident. Police were dispatched around 4:00 p.m. to a home in the 3500 block of Maple Avenue after receiving reports of gunfire.
When officers arrived, they found Freeman suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported by Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service to UAB Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.
“Detectives are doing everything they can to determine what led to this tragic situation,” said Officer De’Rell Freeman in a statement.
A suspect was detained shortly after the shooting. Several neighbors reported that the individual taken into custody is the victim’s adult nephew, though Birmingham Police have not officially confirmed that information. No details regarding potential charges or a motive have been released.
This case marks Birmingham’s 74th homicide of the year. Across Jefferson County, authorities have recorded 106 homicides, including those occurring within city limits.
The investigation remains active. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Birmingham Police detectives at 205-254-1764, or to submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
