Media Release 223
Homicide Investigation Update
The Birmingham Police Department reports the victim has been identified in the homicide that occurred in the 900 block of Beacon Parkway East.
The victim has been identified as Jessie Merchant Birt, (24),W/M, of Birmingham, Alabama.
Further developments in the case indicates the victim, Jessie Birt called 911 to report a person in the parking lot with a gun. The suspect was reported showing the weapon to another person. Burt went outside where he encountered the suspect. An exchange occurred between the victim and the suspect which lead to Burt being shot. The suspect fled the scene prior to officers arrival. Jessie Birt was transported to UAB Hospital where he succumb to his injuries.
Homicide Investigation
The Birmingham Police Department reports detectives are conducting a homicide investigation. The incident occurred on Monday, October 12, 2020 in the 900 block of Beacon Parkway East.
The victim will be identified upon notification of next of kin.
Just after 1:30 a.m., the Birmingham Police 911 Communications Division received a report of a single shot fired in the 900 block of Beacon Parkway East. Officers from South
Precinct were dispatched to patrol the area. While patrolling officers found a male victim in the parking lot suffering from a wound. Birmingham Fire and Rescue responded and transported the victim to UAB Hospital where he later succumb to his injuries.
The preliminary investigation suggest the victim was believed to be walking his dog when he was approached by the suspect. An exchange of words occurred prior to the suspect firing a single shot fatally wounding the victim.
No arrest has been made in this homicide. Detectives have not established a clear motive in this investigation.
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. Updates will be provided as information comes available.
This is Birmingham’s 80th homicide investigation of 2020 and 14 justifiable death investigations and 1 non-criminal homicide (accidental shooting). 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**
