A fatal shooting under the Interstate 65 bridge in Birmingham has been ruled appropriate by authorities after a review of evidence by the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office.
The incident, which occurred on June 7, 2025, resulted in the death of 38-year-old Anthony DeAngelo Avila, who was found with a gunshot wound at the scene on Second Avenue North. Birmingham police responded to reports of gunfire and found Avila’s body beneath the overpass, an area known to be frequented by members of the homeless community.
According to investigators, the shooting stemmed from a verbal altercation that began at the Church of the Reconciler before moving to the bridge location. The Birmingham Police Department’s Crime Reduction Team quickly apprehended a person of interest following the incident, though after thorough investigation, authorities determined the shooting met the legal criteria for justified use of force in self-defense or defense of others.
“After reviewing all available evidence and witness statements, we’ve concluded that this shooting falls within Alabama’s self-defense statutes,” a representative from the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office stated. The decision marks the second justified homicide ruling in Birmingham for 2025.
The incident has prompted discussions about safety measures in areas commonly used as gathering spots by homeless individuals. Local advocacy groups have called for increased resources and support services in these locations, while law enforcement has committed to enhancing patrol presence in vulnerable areas.
Birmingham Police Department announced their findings on June 9, 2025, confirming that no charges would be filed against the shooter. While specific details about what led to the use of deadly force haven’t been released, authorities maintain that the evidence clearly supported the shooter’s claim of self-defense.
The location of the incident, beneath the Interstate 65 bridge, has long been an area of concern for local law enforcement and community organizations. In response to this incident, city officials have announced plans to implement additional security measures and outreach programs to address safety concerns in similar locations throughout Birmingham.
The case file will remain open for administrative purposes, but investigators consider the matter resolved from a criminal standpoint. Local authorities continue to encourage anyone with additional information about the incident to contact the Birmingham Police Department’s homicide unit, though no further action is expected concerning criminal charges.
