Birmingham, AL, July 31, 2025
News Summary
The Birmingham community is coming together to support the family of Reginald Pope, a 17-year-old football player tragically shot in an accidental incident. Following his death, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with funeral expenses. The campaign aims to ease the financial burden on his father, Carl “LA” Alexander, a beloved figure in the community. The incident has prompted discussions about gun violence and the importance of community support during such devastating times.
Birmingham Community Unites to Support Family of Teen Shooting Victim with GoFundMe Campaign
Birmingham is mourning the loss of 17-year-old Reginald Pope, a rising senior and football player at Woodlawn High School, who was fatally shot on Friday in an incident that has shocked the community. The tragic event happened around 8:30 a.m. in the 7500 block of 67th Courtway South, within a Gate City apartment where multiple people were present.
The shooting has been classified as a result of an accidental discharge of a firearm. According to Birmingham police, a juvenile suspect had taken Pope’s gun and accidentally fired it, not realizing a bullet was still in the chamber. Following the incident, authorities have charged the juvenile with reckless manslaughter, a Class B felony that carries a potential prison sentence ranging from 2 to 20 years.
In the aftermath of Pope’s death, the community has shown its support for Carl “LA” Alexander, a long-time employee of Gus’s Hotdogs and Pope’s father. To assist with funeral expenses, a GoFundMe campaign has been initiated by Gus’s Hotdogs, reflecting the community’s grief and desire to help during this difficult time. The campaign aims to alleviate the financial burden associated with laying a child to rest, an experience no parent should have to endure.
Gus’s Hotdogs, a local establishment known for its strong ties to the community, describes Alexander as a significant figure who has demonstrated strength, kindness, and love towards his customers for over 20 years. The GoFundMe message highlights the impact he has made through mentorship and service, reinforcing the community’s deep appreciation for his contributions.
Woodlawn High School, where Pope was a valued member of the student body, has expressed its condolences via social media, emphasizing that Pope’s light, laughter, and legacy will remain an integral part of the Woodlawn family. The school community is grappling with tragedy as they remember a young man full of promise and potential.
The GoFundMe campaign encourages donations of any amount, stressing the importance of collective community support in times of sorrow. In an appeal to the wider public, it underscores the heartbreaking reality of losing a child and the need for communal solidarity to navigate this profound loss.
Support for the Campaign
The GoFundMe campaign not only provides financial assistance for funeral costs but also serves as a testament to the bonds that hold communities together, particularly in challenging times. Donations are flooding in as friends, family, and strangers come together to support a family in need.
Context of the Incident
This incident is part of a concerning trend in Birmingham and other urban areas, where gun violence continues to claim young lives. As the community reflects on the loss of Reginald Pope, discussions around safety, responsible gun ownership, and youth mentorship are increasingly relevant. Moving forward, the local authorities and community leaders are expected to delve into preventative measures to address these pressing issues.
Conclusion
The shocking loss of Reginald Pope has galvanized the Birmingham community, leading to an outpouring of support for his family through the GoFundMe campaign. The remarkable response reflects the collective grief and hope that the community offers to those in mourning while reminding everyone of the importance of safeguarding its youth.
FAQ
What happened to Reginald Pope?
Reginald Pope, a 17-year-old high school football player, was tragically killed in a shooting incident where a juvenile suspect accidentally discharged a gun that had been taken from Pope.
What charges have been filed in connection with the shooting?
The juvenile suspect has been charged with reckless manslaughter, which is a Class B felony in Birmingham.
How can people support the family of Reginald Pope?
People can support the family by donating to the GoFundMe campaign launched by Gus’s Hotdogs to cover funeral expenses.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Reginald Pope, 17-year-old, football player |
| Incident Details | Shooting occurred at 8:30 a.m., accidental discharge by juvenile suspect |
| Charges | Reckless manslaughter against the juvenile suspect |
| Community Response | GoFundMe campaign launched for funeral expenses |
| Supporter | Carl “LA” Alexander, Pope’s father and community pillar |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Woodlawn High Student
Birmingham City Schools Implement Device Ban to Improve Focus
United Way Hosts Day of Mentoring for Local Students
Tragic Death of Three-Year-Old Highlights Safety Concerns
Birmingham Prepares for Back-to-School Season
Birmingham City Schools Enforces Electronics Ban
Birmingham Man Sentenced to 36 Years for Drug Trafficking and Gun Charges
Central Alabama Organizations Host Back-to-School Giveaways
Birmingham Police Arrest 21-Year-Old for Murder and Shooting
Birmingham Hosts Community Event ‘Birmingham Dreams’ to Tackle Local Issues
Additional Resources
- AL.com: Birmingham Hot Dog Spot Fundraiser
- Google Search: Reginald Pope
- Patch: GoFundMe for Family of Shooting Victim
- Wikipedia: GoFundMe
- People: GoFundMe for Barrett Bullock
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
- ABC3340: GoFundMe for Mass Shooting Victim
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Safety
- The Express: Fundraiser for NYC Shooting
- Google News: Gun Violence
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
