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Media Release 209

Homicide Investigation

The Birmingham Police Department reports detectives are conducting a homicide investigation. The incident occurred  on Sunday , August 29, 2021, at 509 Avenue G, in the Pratt City community.

The victim has been identified as Artez McGowen (21) b/m of Birmingham, Alabama.

At approximately 1:51 p.m., officers from the Birmingham Police Department’s West Precinct responded to the location on a call of a person shot. Officers arrived to find the victim Artez McGowen was already transported to UAB hospital by Birmingham Fire and Rescue after he was found lying on the sidewalk wounded by gunfire. Detectives were later notified the victim succumb to his injuries.

The preliminary investigation indicates the fatal shots were fired from a vehicle in a drive by shooting. The suspect’s vehicle fled the scene in a midsize sedan. No arrest has been made. Updates will be provided as this case develops.

If there is anyone who has information pertaining to the case, please contact the B.P.D. Homicide Unit @ 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers @ 205-254-7777.

 This is Birmingham’s 68th murder investigation of 2021 and 11  justifiable death investigations. The Birmingham Police Department adheres to FBI Uniform Crime Reporting guidelines set for all law enforcement agencies across the United States. FBI Uniform Crime Reporting guidelines do not require law enforcement agencies to include justifiable death investigations into the total homicide investigations counts.

**The information is based on a preliminary and ongoing investigation, which continues to evolve as investigators interview witnesses, review physical and electronic records, and analyze forensic evidence. The Department’s understanding of the facts and circumstances may change as additional evidence is collected and analyzed**

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Media Release 209-Homicide Investigation-Artez MccGowen

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