Birmingham, AL, October 5, 2025
News Summary
A 51-year-old man, Quantez O. Johnson, was shot by Officer De’rell Freeman after Johnson refused to drop his weapon during an altercation in Birmingham. The incident occurred early Saturday morning, leading to an investigation by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Johnson was taken to UAB Hospital for medical treatment, and no injuries were reported for others present. This event underscores ongoing issues regarding firearm-related altercations and law enforcement’s response in critical situations.
Birmingham, AL – A 51-year-old man named Quantez O. Johnson was shot early Saturday morning around 3:40 a.m. on October 4 in the 400 block of 2nd Avenue North, Birmingham. The incident arose from an altercation during which Johnson pulled out a gun.
A uniformed Birmingham Police officer, identified as De’rell Freeman, was working a departmentally-approved off-duty security job at the time. Officer Freeman ordered Johnson to drop his weapon, but Johnson did not comply. Consequently, the officer discharged his weapon, striking Johnson.
No injuries were reported for anyone else present at the scene, including Officer Freeman. Following the shooting, Johnson was transported to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital for medical treatment.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is conducting an investigation into the shooting. Findings from this investigation will be submitted to the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.
Details of the Incident
The armed altercation stemmed from a confrontation between two individuals. The presence of a uniformed officer at the scene played a crucial role in the subsequent events. Officer Freeman’s response to the threat posed by Johnson was both immediate and decisive, aimed at ensuring the safety of those present.
Health and Welfare of Johnson
After the shooting, Quantez O. Johnson was quickly transported to UAB Hospital for his injuries. Updates regarding his medical condition have not been disclosed as of now.
Ongoing Investigation
The thorough investigation by the ALEA will look into the circumstances surrounding the incident, the actions of Officer Freeman, and the nature of the confrontation between the individuals involved. The findings will later be presented to the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office to determine any further legal actions or proceedings.
Background Context
This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding firearm-related altercations and the response by law enforcement professionals in critical situations. As investigations take place, they aim to provide a clearer understanding of events and the appropriate measures for ensuring public safety.
FAQ
What happened in Birmingham on October 4?
A 51-year-old man named Quantez O. Johnson was shot early Saturday morning.
What time did the shooting occur?
The shooting occurred around 3:40 a.m. on October 4.
Where did the incident take place?
The incident took place in the 400 block of 2nd Avenue North, Birmingham.
Why was Quantez O. Johnson shot?
The incident involved an altercation between two individuals where Johnson pulled out a gun during the argument.
Who shot Quantez O. Johnson?
A uniformed Birmingham Police officer named De’rell Freeman was present and shot Johnson after he refused to drop his weapon.
What happened to Johnson after the shooting?
Johnson was transported to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital for medical treatment.
Who is investigating the shooting?
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is investigating the shooting.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Individual Involved | Quantez O. Johnson |
| Officer Involved | De’rell Freeman |
| Time of Incident | 3:40 a.m., October 4 |
| Location | 400 block of 2nd Avenue North, Birmingham |
| Response to Threat | Johnson refused to drop his weapon; officer discharged his weapon |
| Injuries | Johnson hospitalized; no other injuries reported |
| Investigating Agency | Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) |
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Additional Resources
- WBRC: ALEA Launches Investigation into Shooting
- AL.com: 21-Year-Old Man Dies After Shooting
- ABC 33/40: ALEA Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting
- BBC: Police Shootings in Birmingham
- Google Search: Shooting in Birmingham
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.
