Birmingham, January 4, 2026
A man was found shot dead inside a vehicle in east Birmingham, marking the city’s first homicide of the year. Police have initiated a thorough investigation into the shooting, which occurred in the South East Lake area. The victim’s identity has not yet been disclosed pending notification of family. Authorities seek information from the public to aid in their ongoing inquiry, emphasizing the importance of community support in addressing such incidents.
Birmingham
A man was tragically found shot dead inside a vehicle in east Birmingham on Friday, January 3, 2026, marking the city’s first homicide of 2026. Police responded to the deadly shooting in the South East Lake area, where the grim discovery was made. Authorities have launched an intensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.
Investigation Underway
The Birmingham Police Department is actively investigating the shooting. Details surrounding the victim’s identity have not been publicly released, pending notification of next of kin. Investigators are currently working to gather evidence and identify any potential suspects or motives in connection with the city’s inaugural homicide of the new year. Law enforcement officials encourage anyone with information pertinent to the investigation to come forward and assist in bringing clarity to this developing situation.
Recent State-Level Incidents
Fatal Head-On Collision in Cherokee County
Two individuals lost their lives, and a teenager sustained injuries in a devastating head-on collision that occurred on New Year’s Day in Cherokee County, Alabama. The tragic crash took place around 5:43 p.m. on January 1, 2026, on Alabama Highway 9, specifically near the 263-mile marker, approximately two miles north of Centre.
The incident involved a 2020 Chevrolet Traverse and a 2003 Ford Explorer. Jasmine D. Agan, 26, of Cedar Bluff, who was driving the Chevrolet Traverse, was fatally injured. A passenger in her vehicle, Thomas D. Agan, 25, of Temple, Georgia, also suffered fatal injuries in the collision. Authorities reported that neither Jasmine D. Agan nor Thomas D. Agan were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.
The driver of the 2003 Ford Explorer, a 16-year-old juvenile from Cedar Bluff, sustained injuries. The teenager was initially transported to a local hospital before being airlifted to UAB for further medical attention. Officials are continuing their investigation into the precise factors that led to this deadly New Year’s Day accident.
Background on Public Safety
As communities begin the new year, law enforcement agencies across the state are focusing on public safety and addressing various incidents. Investigations into violent crimes like the Birmingham homicide and serious traffic accidents, such as the one in Cherokee County, remain high priorities. These events underscore the ongoing challenges faced by residents and emergency services in maintaining safety and order. Authorities are committed to thorough investigations to understand the causes of such incidents and to promote adherence to safety regulations, including the use of seat belts, which are critical in mitigating the severity of injuries in vehicular collisions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What happened in east Birmingham on January 3, 2026?
- A man was found shot dead inside a vehicle in east Birmingham on Friday, January 3, 2026, marking the city’s first homicide of 2026. Police responded to the deadly shooting in the South East Lake area.
- When did the fatal head-on collision in Cherokee County, Alabama occur?
- The fatal head-on collision in Cherokee County, Alabama, occurred on New Year’s Day, specifically around 5:43 p.m. on January 1, 2026.
- Who were the victims in the Cherokee County crash?
- The victims in the Cherokee County, Alabama crash were Jasmine D. Agan, 26, of Cedar Bluff, and Thomas D. Agan, 25, of Temple, Georgia.
- Was anyone injured in the Cherokee County head-on collision?
- Yes, the driver of the 2003 Ford Explorer, a 16-year-old juvenile from Cedar Bluff, sustained injuries and was airlifted to UAB after being taken to a local hospital.
- What was noted about seat belt use in the Cherokee County crash?
- Authorities reported that neither Jasmine D. Agan nor Thomas D. Agan were wearing seat belts at the time of the Cherokee County, Alabama crash.
Key Incident Overview
| Incident | Date & Time | Location | Outcome | Scope | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Birmingham Homicide | January 3, 2026, 6:41 p.m. | South East Lake, east Birmingham | 1 fatality (man shot dead) | City-level | City’s 1st homicide of 2026; ongoing investigation. |
| Cherokee County Head-On Crash | January 1, 2026, 5:43 p.m. | Alabama Highway 9, near Centre, Cherokee County, Alabama | 2 fatalities, 1 injured teen | State-level | Victims: Jasmine D. Agan (26), Thomas D. Agan (25). Injured: 16-year-old juvenile. Neither adult victim was wearing a seat belt. Involved a 2020 Chevrolet Traverse and a 2003 Ford Explorer. |
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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.
