James Darnell Levert Obituary, Death – Authorities have identified the victim of a deadly shooting that took place earlier this week in the southwest area of Birmingham. The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office confirmed on Friday that the man killed was James Darnell Levert, a 43-year-old resident whose life was tragically cut short on Wednesday night.
The fatal incident occurred just after 9:30 p.m. in the 1400 block of Fulton Avenue S.W., a typically quiet neighborhood that was suddenly disrupted by the sound of gunfire. Officers from the Birmingham Police Department’s West Precinct responded swiftly after receiving a report that someone had been shot in the area.
When officers arrived on the scene, they found Levert inside a residence, unresponsive. Medical personnel from Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service arrived shortly thereafter, but despite their efforts, they pronounced Levert dead at 9:51 p.m., only minutes after the initial emergency call was made.
According to Birmingham Police Sgt. LaQuitta Wade, the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain murky. The man who lives at the home where Levert was found told investigators that he had heard gunshots coming from outside. Upon stepping out to see what was happening, he opened his door and was met with the sight of Levert collapsing into his residence. The homeowner immediately dialed 911 for help.
It is not yet known whether Levert and the resident of the home had any prior relationship. Investigators have not determined whether the victim was fleeing from someone, seeking help, or was otherwise connected to the home. Sgt. Wade said police are still working to piece together how and why Levert ended up there.
As of now, no suspects have been taken into custody, and authorities have not publicly identified any persons of interest in the case. The investigation is ongoing, and detectives are seeking any information that could help clarify what led to the shooting.
The killing of James Darnell Levert marks Birmingham’s 24th homicide of the year. It is a sobering reminder of the persistent gun violence that continues to plague the city. Within Jefferson County as a whole, the total number of homicides this year now stands at 37, with Birmingham accounting for a significant portion of that number.
Local authorities are urging anyone who may have seen or heard anything connected to the shooting to come forward. Witnesses or those with information are encouraged to contact Birmingham Police detectives directly at 205-254-1764. For those who wish to remain anonymous, tips can be shared through Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
The death of Levert has left family members and friends in mourning, though further personal details about the victim have not yet been released publicly. As police continue their investigation, community members are left to grapple with yet another life lost to violence.
This latest shooting underscores broader concerns about public safety and the need for community cooperation in solving violent crimes. Authorities continue to stress the importance of residents working together with law enforcement to bring justice to the families of victims and prevent further bloodshed.
As of Friday, police had not released information on any motives, suspects, or whether Levert was the intended target of the shooting. It also remains unclear if the shooting occurred in the immediate vicinity of the home where he was found, or if he had traveled some distance before collapsing inside.
The Birmingham Police Department has been actively working to reduce violent crime, but incidents like this highlight the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement and communities alike. With a rising homicide count, officials are hoping that residents will assist in providing tips that could break open investigations like this one.
The area where the shooting took place, located in Birmingham’s southwest sector, has seen a mix of calm periods and occasional bursts of violence over the years. Local leaders have frequently called for community-based efforts to improve safety and support for residents affected by crime.
Though the investigation into James Darnell Levert’s death is still in its early stages, officials remain hopeful that witnesses will come forward with the crucial information needed to make an arrest. The Birmingham Police Department continues to follow up on leads and encourages ongoing cooperation from the public.
As the city reflects on another life lost too soon, James Darnell Levert becomes more than just a statistic. Behind the number is a person, and his untimely death adds urgency to the city’s efforts to curb violence and promote safer neighborhoods.
Anyone who might have relevant details is strongly urged to contact the authorities as the search for answers—and justice—continues.
