The Birmingham Police Department showed video of an officer-involved shooting that claimed the life of one man on November 28.
Jamal D’Angelo Williams, 26, was shot by officers in the 800 block of 45th Street after ShotSpotter detected multiple shots fired.
Officers responded to the Kingston community and spoke to witnesses. People in the crowd told police a man was armed with a gun. Officers encountered the man, and shots were fired at him after he ignored verbal commands to show his hands. Police said the man did retrieve his firearm. The man, later identified as Williams, was taken to UAB Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Officers recovered the handgun from the scene.
Officer body cam was activated, and surveillance video from the Housing Authority of Birmingham (HAB) was obtained by investigators.
The HAB video shows an altercation and the suspect pacing through the housing community with a handgun, while harassing and assaulting people.
Police showed both videos. Chief Michael Pickett said it was important to release the video to ensure the public receives the accurate context of the incident.
"We foster that relationship with public trust," Pickett said. "That being said, I want to again express my condolences to the family and to the community. Any loss of life deeply affects us and we don't take these moments lightly."
Pickett stood by the actions of the police officer involved, saying he had to take measures quickly to protect innocent bystanders and children in the immediate area.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency has taken over the investigation.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected].
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every day or become a member to gain access to exclusive content and 1819 News merch.