From The Tribune staff reports
CLAY – Birmingham Police are investigating after a Clay teenager was gunned down in the city on Saturday.
The victim has been identified as Kamaree Shondale Phillips, 17, of Clay, and a student at Clay-Chalkville High School, according to Officer Truman Fitzgerald. Jefferson County School officials confirmed that he was a 10th grader.
Phillips was the 10th homicide victim in Birmingham in the previous 12 days, the third high school student in that span.
Police were dispatched at 4:10 p.m., to the Magnolia Court Apartments, 3 Westchester Court, on report of a person shot.
“Officers arrived on the scene and observed the victim lying outside of a vehicle suffering from an apparent gunshot wound,” Fitzgerald said. “Birmingham Fire and Rescue personnel arrived on the scene and transported the victim to St. Vincent’s East for immediate medical care.”
The victim was pronounced deceased by St. Vincent’s Hospital Staff.
“The preliminary investigation has revealed the victim was sitting inside of a vehicle when he was approached by an unknown suspect,” Fitzgerald said. “The suspect fired shots at the victim then fled the scene. There is no one in custody.”
“It is tragic to have one of our students leave for spring break and then not return because of an act of violence,” CCHS Principal Dr. Eugene Dallas said. “As I shared with our school community, there really are no words for a time like this. Our school mourns with Kamaree’s family. We stand with them. They are in our prayers.”
Dr. Walter Gonsoulin, Superintendent of Jefcoed, said the loss of any student is felt throughout the district.
“I wish to express condolences to Kamaree’s loved ones, his friends, and his teachers,” Gonsoulin said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with them. We will have grief counselors at Clay-Chalkville High School Monday for any student or staff member who needs assistance.”
If there is anyone who has information pertaining to the case, please contact the B.P.D. Homicide Unit @ 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers @ 205-254-7777.