Birmingham was rocked by two violent shootings that occurred within minutes of each other on opposite sides of the city, leaving two young men dead. The shocking back-to-back incidents, happening less than half an hour apart, have left the community shaken and investigators scrambling for answers.

Victims Xavier Colvert, 22, and Ronald Bennett Jr., 18, both lost their lives in a night of senseless violence that underscores the rising tide of gun-related crime in the city. Law enforcement officials are now working tirelessly to piece together what led to these tragic incidents.

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First Shooting: Xavier Colvert Fatally Shot Inside His Truck in Ensley

The first shooting was reported just before midnight in the 1400 block of 57th Street in the Ensley neighborhood. Birmingham police responded to multiple calls of gunfire, arriving on the scene to find 22-year-old Xavier Colvert slumped over inside his white pickup truck, unresponsive.

Emergency responders from the Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service attempted life-saving measures, but it was too late—Colvert was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers quickly noticed several shell casings littering the ground near the passenger side of the vehicle, suggesting multiple shots had been fired in his direction.

What We Know So Far:

• Victim: Xavier Colvert, 22
• Time of Shooting: Just before midnight
• Location: 1400 block of 57th Street, Ensley
• Evidence Found: At least six shell casings
• Status of Investigation: No suspects identified yet

Colvert’s tragic death has left family and friends searching for answers. As investigators work to determine a motive, police are urging anyone who may have seen or heard anything to come forward.

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Second Shooting: Ronald Bennett Jr. Killed as Car Riddled with Bullets, Crashes Into Home

Just 21 minutes after Colvert’s shooting, officers were called to another fatal gunfire incident, this time in the 600 block of Eighth Terrace West. A chilling scene awaited them—a vehicle, riddled with bullet holes, had crashed into shrubbery and the front porch of a home.

Inside the car was 18-year-old Ronald Bennett Jr., who had been hit multiple times by gunfire. He had managed to exit the vehicle but collapsed outside before help could arrive. Emergency personnel pronounced him dead at the scene.

What We Know So Far:

• Victim: Ronald Bennett Jr., 18
• Time of Shooting: 12:21 a.m.
• Location: 600 block of Eighth Terrace West
• Details: Over two dozen shots fired at the vehicle
• Crash Aftermath: Car veered off the road after the driver was hit

Authorities believe that Bennett was a student at Huffman High School, and his death has sent shockwaves through the school community. It is still unclear whether he was specifically targeted or caught in the crossfire of a dispute.

Bennett’s passenger, who was in the car with him at the time of the attack, attempted to regain control of the vehicle after the shooting but was unable to prevent it from crashing.

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Community Reeling as Gun Violence Continues to Rise

With these two killings, Birmingham has now recorded ten homicides in 2025, a troubling figure considering that it had already seen eight homicides in January alone. This marks a notable increase in gun violence compared to the same time last year.

The broader Jefferson County area has recorded a total of 15 homicides so far this year, raising concerns about public safety. Law enforcement officials have urged community members to work together in an effort to curb the surge in violence.

In response to the tragedy, Birmingham Police Officer Truman Fitzgerald expressed sympathy, particularly for the students and staff at Huffman High School who are mourning the loss of Ronald Bennett Jr.

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Investigation and Call for Witnesses

At this time, no arrests have been made, and authorities have not yet determined if the two shootings are connected. However, given the close timing and the method of attack in both cases, investigators are looking for possible links.

Birmingham police are urging anyone with information, surveillance footage, or eyewitness accounts to step forward and assist in solving these cases.

Contact Information for Tips:

• Birmingham Police Department: (205) 254-1764
• Crime Stoppers (Anonymous Tips): (205) 254-7777

The city remains on edge as officials work to uncover the truth behind these senseless killings. With no clear suspects identified, community cooperation will be crucial in bringing those responsible to justice.