BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — Authorities are investigating a shooting that left two people dead Tuesday afternoon.
The Birmingham Police Department reported that initially, one person was found suffering from an apparent gunshot wound outside a Shell Gas Station on the 3800 block of East Lake Road. That individual was transported to UAB hospital, where he died from his injuries.
After canvassing the area, BPD said another victim was found nearby in the bushes and was pronounced dead on scene.
A third person arrived at a local hospital suffering from a gunshot wound, but Sgt. Rodarius Mauldin with the Birmingham Police Department said he could not confirm the person was injured in the incident near East Lake Boulevard.
Mauldin said that officers’ initial investigation indicates that the two victims may have been sitting in a vehicle when they were approached by two other individuals.
The victims were later identified as Birmingham residents 23-year-old Lorenzo Woods and 22-year-old Courtney Woods.
East Lake Vice President Gloria Knight said this is a sad situation.
“They could have shot an innocent bystander,” Knight said. “Getting off that freeway and they just shoot like that, there could have been more lives lost.”
Police said the shooting happened in front of the Shell station off of the interstate, steps away from Tallapoosa Street. They’re asking for anyone who drove by to submit an anonymous tip to help with the investigation.
“It’s concerning any time someone chooses to open fire in the middle of broad daylight,” Mauldin said. “We’re just asking people to come forward when you see something, definitely say something speak out. With our investigation we’re utilizing all resources and tool to make sure we get these people off the streets in Birmingham that choose to commit these acts.”
Knight recently lost her son to heart issues and knows at least two mothers are now hurting.
“To lose a child, and I know how that mother feels, the aching heart is something you never get over,: Knight said. “And for someone to kill your child, I know it’s worse.”
No suspects are in custody at this time. No other information has been released at this time as the investigation is still ongoing.
Anyone with information regarding the shooting are asked to contact 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
Stay with CBS 42 as this is a developing story.
