Police seek information, offer $100K reward for help.

Authorities in Birmingham, Alabama have announced a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the arrests of the individuals responsible for a tragic mass shooting. This incident, which occurred on Saturday night outside a lounge in the Five Points South Entertainment District, resulted in the deaths of four people and left 17 others injured.

As of Monday, five of the injured victims were still receiving treatment in the hospital, according to Birmingham Police Chief Scott Thurmond. He indicated that investigators have already gathered a “significant number” of tips but are seeking additional information from the public to assist in the case.

The FBI is joining efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice by offering a reward of up to $50,000. Carlton Peeples, the FBI Birmingham Special Agent in Charge, reiterated the importance of community involvement during a news conference. “If you, or someone you know, has information about those involved in Saturday’s mass shooting, please know that you can remain anonymous,” he emphasized.

In a related announcement, Frank Barefield, chairman of Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama, has also pledged a reward of $50,000, marking the largest award the organization has ever offered. Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin stated, “You can receive up to $100,000 if you have credible information that leads to an arrest and a subsequent conviction. It is crucial for our community to come forward and help us.”

The mayor condemned the violence, asserting that individuals committing such acts should not feel safe within the community. “We can’t provide safety or cover for those who want to harm others,” he said. “It’s time for our community to step up.” Chief Thurmond echoed this sentiment, stating firmly, “We’re gonna hunt you down, and we’re gonna arrest you.”

Preliminary investigations indicated that at least one victim at the shooting may have been specifically targeted. The police have also raised concerns regarding the firearms used in the incident, which are alleged to have been converted to fully automatic weapons. Chief Thurmond asserted that such weapons “do not belong on the streets.”

Eyewitness Gabriel Eslami, who was shot during the incident, described the harrowing scene as “like a horror movie.” He was waiting in line outside the lounge when the gunfire erupted. “There are bodies on the sidewalk. There’s smoke from the guns,” he recounted, sharing the chaos that unfolded.

After being injured, Eslami’s friend rushed him to the hospital, where he vividly recalled his desperation for help. “I get there, I’m screaming, ‘Help! Help! I’ve been shot, I’ve been shot,’” he said. “I’m so lucky,” he reflected on his survival amidst such a dire situation.

The police have released the names of three of the four individuals who lost their lives in the shooting: 21-year-old Anitra Holloman, 27-year-old Tahj Booker, and 27-year-old Carlos McCain. Investigations are ongoing as authorities work diligently to ensure justice for the victims and their families.

The Birmingham community remains in shock following this tragic event. As law enforcement continues to gather information and pursue leads, the calls for assistance from the community reinforce the importance of collective vigilance and cooperation in tackling gun violence.

As investigators piece together the details surrounding the shooting, the focus remains on apprehending those responsible and preventing similar incidents in the future.

Source: ABC News