In the heart of Birmingham, Alabama, a violent act cut short the life of 19-year-old Nigel Riddick Roberson, a Black male, in the winter of 2023. On the afternoon of Saturday, December 2nd, at approximately 3:38 p.m., the sound of gunfire pierced the air in the 900 block of 5th Avenue North, prompting multiple ShotSpotter notifications that drew officers from the Birmingham Police Department's North Precinct to the scene.
Upon their arrival, officers discovered a vehicle containing two
men, both of whom had sustained gunshot wounds. Emergency services from Birmingham Fire and Rescue were quick to respond, transporting both injured individuals to UAB Hospital for urgent medical attention. Despite the efforts of medical staff, Nigel Riddick Roberson succumbed to his injuries the following day, Sunday, December 3, 2023, at approximately 3:58 p.m., as confirmed by the Jefferson County Coroner's Office.
The initial investigation into the incident suggests a targeted attack. It is believed that as the vehicle occupied by Roberson and the other victim was stopped at a red light, unidentified individuals exited another vehicle and opened fire on them before quickly fleeing the scene. The Birmingham Police Department has been actively investigating the case, which marked the city's 117th murder investigation of 2023. As of the latest available reports, no arrests have been made in connection with the homicide. Authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation by contacting the B.P.D. Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers.
