From The Tribune staff reports
BIRMINGHAM — Gunfire erupted as a Birmingham Police Department (BPD) officer arrived on the scene of a Car Break-In call Tuesday, Nov. 14.
A West Precinct officer responded to the location. Once the officer arrived on the scene, he heard an exchange of gunfire near him. The officer observed two male suspects flee the scene on foot and them into an alleyway until he lost sight of them.
Officers canvassed the area, but were unable to locate the suspects.
The preliminary investigation has revealed that at least two suspects were breaking into a car at a residence when they were involved in a shootout with the homeowner. Neither the homeowner nor the BPD officer was struck by gunfire. Officers discovered the homeowner’s vehicle had been broken into.
The BPD encourages community members in the area to be alert for any suspicious activity and wants the public to be aware it is not uncommon for car break-in suspects to be armed with a firearm.
Anyone with information is asked to call the BPD Crimes Against Property Division at (205) 254-1769 or remain anonymous and receive up to $5,000 by dialing Crime Stoppers at (205) 254-7777.