Birmingham, October 5, 2025
News Summary
Early Saturday morning in Birmingham, an off-duty police officer was involved in a shooting incident during an altercation. The incident occurred when the officer, working security, intervened in a dispute between two men. Quantez O. Johnson, 51, attempted to retrieve a firearm during the altercation and was subsequently shot by the officer. Johnson sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is receiving treatment. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is investigating the shooting, adding to ongoing discussions about police conduct and community safety.
Birmingham witnessed a shooting incident early Saturday morning involving an off-duty police officer that sparked conversations regarding police conduct and safety. A man was shot during an altercation on October 4, shortly after 3:30 a.m., in the 400 block of Second Avenue North.
The officer, identified as working an approved off-duty security job, intervened in a physical dispute between two men. During this intervention, one of the individuals, identified as Quantez O. Johnson, 51, attempted to retrieve a firearm. According to Officer De’Rell Freeman, Johnson did not comply with the officer’s orders to put down the gun. This refusal led to the officer discharging his weapon, resulting in Johnson being shot.
Fortunately, Johnson sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital for treatment. At this time, no other individuals were reported injured, including the officer involved.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is currently reviewing the circumstances surrounding the officer-involved shooting. Upon completion of the investigation, the findings will be submitted to the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office for further examination.
This incident contributes to a growing dialogue on police interactions and community safety within Birmingham. The public and relevant authorities are awaiting the outcome of the investigation to better understand the factors that led to the shooting and to evaluate the appropriate measures moving forward.
Key Facts:
- Incident Type: Officer-involved shooting
- Date and Time: October 4, shortly after 3:30 a.m.
- Location: 400 block of Second Avenue North, Birmingham
- Involved Parties: Off-duty Birmingham police officer and Quantez O. Johnson, 51
- Injuries: Johnson sustained non-life-threatening injuries
- Current Status: Johnson was treated at UAB Hospital
- Investigation: Conducted by ALEA, findings submitted to Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office
Background Context
Police-community interactions have been a critical subject of discussion within Birmingham and beyond. The occurrence of officer-involved shootings raises questions regarding the protocols and measures in place to ensure the safety of both law enforcement and the public. The outcomes of investigations such as this one can have lasting implications on policies, procedures, and community trust.
FAQ
What happened in Birmingham early Saturday morning?
A man was shot early Saturday morning by an off-duty Birmingham police officer during an altercation on Second Avenue North.
Who was involved in the shooting?
The officer involved was working an approved off-duty security job. The man shot was identified as Quantez O. Johnson, 51.
What led to the shooting?
The officer was trying to break up an argument between two men. Quantez O. Johnson attempted to retrieve a firearm and refused orders to put it down, which led the officer to discharge his weapon.
What were the injuries sustained?
Johnson was taken to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Is anyone else injured in the incident?
No other individuals, including the officer, were injured during the incident.
Who is investigating the shooting?
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is investigating the officer-involved shooting.
What will happen after the investigation is complete?
Findings from the investigation will be submitted to the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office upon completion.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Incident Type | Officer-involved shooting |
| Date and Time | October 4, shortly after 3:30 a.m. |
| Location | 400 block of Second Avenue North, Birmingham |
| Involvement | Off-duty Birmingham police officer and Quantez O. Johnson, 51 |
| Injuries | Non-life-threatening injuries sustained by Johnson |
| Investigation | ALEA conducting investigation; findings to be submitted to DA’s Office |
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Additional Resources
- AL.com: Birmingham Police Shoot, Injure Man Involved in an Argument
- Wikipedia: Police Brutality
- WBRC: ALEA Launches Investigation into Shooting Involving Birmingham Police Officer
- Google Search: Police Conduct Community Relations
- ABC3340: Officers Block Green Springs Highway
- Google Scholar: Police Community Relations
- CBS42: State Agency Investigating Birmingham Officer-Involved Shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police Officer Involved Shooting
- WBRC: Birmingham Officer-Involved Shooting Under Investigation
- Google News: Birmingham Police Shooting
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.
