Our hearts are heavy as we come together to mourn the tragic events that took place in Birmingham this past weekend. A $100,000 reward is being offered for any information related to the mass shooting. Tips can be submitted to the FBI online at tips.fbi.gov or by calling Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. You can also submit tips online at P3 Tips.

For those struggling to cope with the emotional impact of this tragedy, mental health support is available. If you or someone you know is experiencing distress related to the shooting, please call the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. For immediate crisis support, dial 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.

Coping Tools:

• Normal Responses: Difficulty sleeping, irritability, and trouble concentrating are common after a traumatic event. If these symptoms persist or affect relationships and performance at home or work, consult your Primary Care Provider.
• Stay Connected: Engage with friends, family, and neighbors who offer positive and helpful support. Social support is key to recovering from stressful situations.
• Public Places & Travel: If these cause distress, consider going with others or in groups until the anxiety lessens.
• Reach Out: Check in with others affected by the event. Connecting with others can be beneficial for everyone involved.
• Avoid Unhealthy Coping: Avoid increasing alcohol and tobacco use to manage stress. Instead, use healthy techniques such as breathing exercises, imagery, and muscle relaxation.
• Media Consumption: Limit exposure to graphic images and videos on the news and social media, especially for children. Be mindful of commentary that scapegoats groups of people, as it can harm community connections and increase the risk of future violence.

Talking to Children:

• Use Age-Appropriate Language: Ask children what they have seen or heard and listen to their concerns. Respond in a non-judgmental and empathetic manner.
• Reassure Safety: Remind children and adolescents that, despite some people causing harm, many others, including police, fire and rescue, and healthcare providers, are working to keep them safe.
• Address Misconceptions: Younger children may feel they are responsible for bad events. Reassure them that it is not their fault.

Messages from Our Leaders:

“We owe it to the victims, the families, the victims no longer here with us, we owe it to the victims who have to live with this trauma, we owe it to our innocent children, our innocent seniors, we owe it to every citizen in the City of Birmingham.”
— Mayor Randall Woodfin

“I’m heartbroken by the horrific mass shooting in Five Points South. I join in extending my sincere condolences to the families whose loved ones were lost, and I pray for a full and speedy recovery for those injured.”
— Congresswoman Terri Sewell

“We will do everything we possibly can to make sure we uncover, identify, and hunt down whoever is responsible for preying on our people this morning.”
— Birmingham Police Officer Truman Fitzgerald

Remembering the Victims:

We honor the lives lost and extend our deepest sympathies to their families and loved ones:

• 21-year-old Anitra Holloman of Bessemer
• 26-year-old Roderick Lynn Patterson, Jr. of Birmingham
• 27-year-old Tahj Booker of Birmingham
• 27-year-old Carlos McCain of Birmingham

As we come together in grief, let us also unite in strength and determination to seek justice for the victims and healing for our community. Stay vigilant, stay safe, and let’s continue to support one another through these difficult times.