In a grim reminder of the ongoing struggle with violent crime in Alabama, recent mass shootings have rocked communities across the state. The most recent incident occurred in Birmingham on Feb. 16, 2024, where four individuals lost their lives in a tragic shooting outside a home on Center Street North. The victims were identified as Terrell Edwards, 38; Kevin McGhee, 38; Cortez Ray, 32; and Talton "TJ" Tait, 36.

This occurrence marked one of the few instances of mass shootings in Alabama over the past 10 years, with previous incidents including a shooting at a Sweet 16 party in Dadeville on April 15, 2023, which claimed the lives of four individuals and injured more than 30. Additionally, a dispute between members of the "7 Deadly Sins" motorcycle club in Morgan County on June 4, 2020, resulted in the deaths of seven individuals at a Valhermoso Springs home.

Further back in history, the state faced its deadliest mass shooting almost 15 years ago when 10 people, including the gunman, were killed in Coffee and Geneva Counties on March 10, 2009. The tragic incident was driven by a vengeful motive against former employers.

While Alabama continues to grapple with the devastating impact of such violent events, law enforcement authorities and communities strive to enhance safety measures and address the underlying issues fueling such heinous crimes.