BIRMINGHAM, AL – A tragic and violent gunfight erupted at the Rev. Dr. Morrell Todd Homes in Birmingham’s Kingston neighborhood, leaving 22-year-old Demarious Cherry dead in a hail of bullets. According to law enforcement officials, the deadly shooting occurred Wednesday night around 9:40 p.m. on Roscoe Avenue, sending shockwaves through the community as at least 40 rounds were fired in a chaotic exchange of gunfire.

Gunfire Shakes Kingston Neighborhood: A Scene of Chaos and Fear

The Birmingham Police Department (BPD) reported that officers patrolling nearby heard the barrage of shots in real time, prompting an immediate response. The city’s ShotSpotter technology, a gunfire detection system used to pinpoint the exact location of shootings, confirmed the incident’s location and helped authorities deploy officers within minutes.

Upon arrival, officers discovered Demarious Cherry, a young man known in the Kingston community, lying on the pavement with severe gunshot wounds. Emergency medical responders rushed to the scene, but Cherry succumbed to his injuries before he could be transported to a hospital.

A large crowd gathered as news of the shooting spread rapidly. Witnesses described the horrifying moment the gunfire began, with some recounting how bullets struck cars, homes, and even street signs. “It was like a war zone,” said local resident James Holloway, who lives a few houses away from where Cherry was killed. “We hit the ground as soon as we heard the first shots. It felt like it would never stop.”

At Least 40 Rounds Fired: What We Know So Far

Authorities have yet to make an arrest or publicly identify suspects. However, initial investigations suggest that multiple shooters may have been involved. Crime scene investigators recovered more than 40 spent shell casings, indicating a high-powered exchange of gunfire. The type of weapons used in the shooting remains undisclosed as ballistic analysis continues.

BPD Public Information Officer Truman Fitzgerald addressed the media on Thursday morning, confirming that authorities are pursuing several leads. “This level of gun violence is completely unacceptable,” Fitzgerald stated. “We are urging anyone who has information to come forward and assist us in bringing those responsible to justice.”

Who Was Demarious Cherry?

Friends and family describe Cherry as a young man with big dreams and a promising future. He had recently spoken about enrolling in a local technical school to pursue a career in automotive repair. “He was turning his life around,” said his cousin, Latasha Johnson. “He had plans, goals, and a family that loved him. He did not deserve this.”

However, authorities are also investigating whether Cherry had any connections to local disputes or conflicts that may have led to the shooting. Investigators are combing through social media accounts, surveillance footage, and witness statements to determine the motive behind the attack.

Community Reacts: Fear, Frustration, and Calls for Change

The Rev. Dr. Morrell Todd Homes has seen a rise in violent crime in recent years, with community leaders expressing outrage and concern over the growing frequency of shootings. Residents are demanding more police presence, stricter gun control measures, and better opportunities for young people.

“We’ve lost too many of our children to gun violence,” said local pastor Rev. Michael Cartwright, who has been leading initiatives to reduce crime in the area. “This should not be the norm. We need change, and we need it now.”

At a candlelight vigil held Thursday evening, more than 100 people gathered to honor Cherry’s memory, holding signs that read “Enough is Enough” and “Justice for Demarious”.

The Ongoing Investigation and Potential Suspects

While the investigation remains active, authorities are urging residents to report any suspicious activity and come forward with information. Investigators are also reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses in hopes of identifying potential suspects.

Police Chief Scott Thurmond has vowed to allocate additional resources to the case and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. “We will not allow this kind of violence to go unchecked,” he said. “Our detectives are working tirelessly to track down the individuals behind this senseless act.”

Birmingham’s Growing Gun Violence Epidemic

Cherry’s death is part of a larger pattern of rising gun violence in Birmingham, which has seen an increase in homicides and shootings over the past year. City leaders and activists have pointed to factors such as poverty, gang activity, and easy access to firearms as contributors to the problem.

In response, Mayor Randall Woodfin has called for increased youth intervention programs, better economic opportunities, and expanded community policing efforts. “We cannot continue losing our young people to senseless violence,” Woodfin said in a statement. “This is not just a police issue; it’s a community issue. We all need to step up.”

Reward Offered for Information

In an effort to bring justice to Cherry’s family, Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama has announced a $5,000 reward for any information leading to an arrest. Residents with details about the shooting can contact Birmingham Crime Stoppers at (205) 254-7777.

Final Thoughts: A Community in Mourning and Seeking Answers

As Cherry’s family prepares for his funeral, the Kingston community remains on high alert, with residents calling for immediate action from city officials. The sound of gunfire has become all too familiar in parts of Birmingham, but those who knew Cherry refuse to let his death become just another statistic.

“This is not just about Demarious,” said local activist Tasha Green. “This is about every young life lost to violence. It has to stop.”

This remains a developing story, and authorities are expected to provide further updates as they work tirelessly to solve Birmingham’s latest tragedy.