News Summary
Ethan Carter, an 18-year-old football player, was hospitalized after being shot multiple times during a robbery attempt related to a gun purchase in Birmingham, Alabama. The shooting occurred near a sports training program, leaving Carter in stable condition. The Birmingham Police Department is investigating the incident and warns against purchasing firearms through informal channels, highlighting the dangers associated with such activities. The community is rallying around Carter, with hopes for his swift recovery as he prepares for a future in football.
Birmingham
Ethan Carter, an 18-year-old graduate of Hudsonville High School in Michigan, was hospitalized after being shot multiple times during an incident in Birmingham, Alabama, on Saturday night. Carter was attending a sports training program when he suffered gunshot wounds to his head, throat, chest, hand, and arm.
The shooting occurred near the intersection of Winchester Drive and Ridgewood Circle at approximately 6 p.m. Birmingham police have reported that the incident was related to a robbery during a gun purchase that had been arranged through social media. While the investigation is ongoing, law enforcement officials stated there is no indication that the gun sale itself was illegal.
At the time of the latest update, Carter was reported to be conscious and exhibiting full function while being treated in a trauma unit. Despite the serious nature of his injuries, he is in stable condition, and a statement from his family indicated that he would not require surgery, though he has suffered from brain bruising. Family members conveyed optimism regarding his recovery, suggesting that he might be released from the hospital as early as Tuesday.
Background and Community Response
Carter has made a name for himself in the world of football as a 6-foot-1, 220-pound linebacker, being recognized as part of the 2024 MLive Grand Rapids Football Dream Team Defense. He has verbally committed to playing for Davenport University, which has expressed sadness over the incident and extended their thoughts and prayers to Carter and his family during this difficult time.
Leonard Stephens, Carter’s coach, has come forth to express his unwavering support and highlight the young athlete’s hard work and dedication to sports. The broader community has also rallied around Carter, showing concern for his well-being and hoping for a swift recovery.
In light of this incident, the Birmingham Police Department has issued a warning to the public against purchasing firearms through informal channels, such as social media. Authorities underscored the inherent risks associated with these unofficial transactions, which can often lead to violent encounters, as seen in Carter’s case.
Looking Ahead
As the situation unfolds, Carter’s family and friends remain hopeful for his recovery and future. His commitment to Davenport University places him on a hopeful path, as he aims to continue pursuing his passion for football while recovering from this traumatic experience. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers surrounding informal gun sales and the unfortunate violence that can accompany such activities.
The community in Hudsonville and Birmingham continues to keep Carter in their thoughts, united in their hopes for his recovery and safety in the future.
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Additional Resources
- WVTM 13 News
- AL.com – Crime
- Wood TV 8
- MLive
- WGHN News
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- Encyclopedia Britannica: 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.
