The Birmingham Police Department has made a plea to the public following another act of violence that claimed the life of a young man.
Gerald Andre Lomax, Jr., 17, of Birmingham, died Wednesday afternoon after suffering gunshot wounds.
Detectives believe Lomax was involved in an argument Tuesday evening as he was leaving a basketball game at Woodlawn High School.
"The victim and a friend attempted to leave the location (54th Street and 2nd Avenue North) in their vehicle when the unknown suspect fired multiple shots into their vehicle, striking the victim on the passenger side of the vehicle," police stated.
No one is in custody and police have not released a description of the shooter's vehicle.
Police were already investigating multiple homicides when the Jefferson County Coroner notified them of Lomax's death.
"The Birmingham Police Department extends our heartfelt compassion to the families affected by the recent horrendous acts of violence in the City of Birmingham," police said in a statement. "During this tragic time, the Birmingham Police Department is actively pursuing those accountable with unwavering dedication."
Detectives said they are committed to bringing justice to impacted families but need the public's help.
The statement continued, "Your patience is appreciated as we work to create a safer city. "Let's work together to make Birmingham a safer place for all."
Birmingham City Schools Superintendent Mark Sullivan released a video statement asking parents and guardians for help.
"Recent acts of senseless violence have no place in our community," Sullivan said. "We owe it to our children to give them the safest environment possible and the opportunity to enjoy a full life. Parents, aunts, uncles, neighbors, we are all in this together. Please talk to your children."
Sullivan said counselors are available for any students in need.
Woodlawn High School reacted to the shooting on Facebook.
"There are no words to fully express our deepest condolences to the Lomax family, and our Jackson Olin High School family in the loss of their son and student," the post stated. "On behalf of Woodlawn High School, the Lomax family has our full support."
Birmingham City Council Public Safety Chair LaTonya Tate also sent condolences.
"Today, our hearts are heavy as we mourn another tragedy that has shaken our community. I want to extend my deepest condolences to the Lomax family, friends, teammates, classmates and the entire Birmingham City School system who are left with the pain of another life that was cut short by this devastating act of violence," she said.
"We're all feeling this pain, but I know that we remain united in our determination to bring justice, and we call upon everyone to join us in fostering a culture of peace, resilience, and hope," Tate added.
Escalating violence in Birmingham caught the attention of Gov. Kay Ivey earlier this year after a mass shooting in Five Points South left four dead and 17 injured. Ivey offered to join the city in combatting crime.
The city recently approved a $15.8 million plan to recruit and retain officers.
Birmingham Police Chief Scott Thurmond will retire on November 29. Deputy Chief of Special Operations Michael Pickett will serve as the interim police chief.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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