BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Authorities Identify Victim of Deadly Southwest Birmingham Shooting as 42-Year-Old Travis Sentell Russell
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Authorities have identified the victim of a deadly weekend shooting in southwest Birmingham as 42-year-old Travis Sentell Russell of Dadeville, according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office. The tragic incident unfolded on Saturday, September 20, 2025, around 12:45 p.m., when Birmingham Police officers from the West Precinct were dispatched to the 700 block of McMillon Avenue following reports of gunfire.
When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered Russell lying on the ground behind an SUV in the driveway of a residence. He had suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was unresponsive. Birmingham Fire and Rescue personnel arrived shortly after, but despite immediate life-saving efforts, Russell was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators quickly secured the area, taping off the residential block as they began gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. Neighbors reported hearing a series of gunshots that shattered the midday calm, followed by chaos as residents sought cover. Some described seeing a vehicle speeding away from the area immediately after the shots were fired.
At this time, Birmingham Police have not released details on a suspect or motive. Detectives from the department’s Homicide Division are leading the investigation, working to piece together what led to the deadly encounter. Authorities are reviewing surveillance cameras in the neighborhood and speaking with individuals who may have had contact with Russell before the shooting.
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office confirmed Russell’s identity late Saturday evening, notifying his family of the devastating news. His loved ones, now grieving the sudden and violent loss, have described him as a devoted father, brother, and friend. Those who knew him personally said he was a man with a warm personality and a loyal heart, someone who left an impression on everyone he encountered.
Community members in the McMillon Avenue area expressed both sadness and frustration at yet another act of gun violence claiming a life in Birmingham. “It’s heartbreaking to see this happen over and over again,” one neighbor shared. “This man lost his life in the middle of the day, right in our neighborhood. It’s terrifying, and it has to stop.”
The Birmingham Police Department is urging anyone with information regarding the shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted to the department directly at 205-254-1764, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. Officials stressed that even the smallest detail could be vital in helping investigators identify a suspect and bring justice to Russell’s family.
This latest tragedy adds to Birmingham’s growing list of homicides in 2025, fueling ongoing concerns about the rise of violent crime in the city. Community leaders and anti-violence advocates continue to push for stronger community engagement, conflict resolution programs, and resources to prevent future loss of life.
As investigators continue their work, friends and family are left to grapple with their grief, planning vigils and memorials to honor Travis Sentell Russell’s memory. His death is not just another statistic but a reminder of the deep human cost of violence—one that leaves families broken, children without parents, and communities longing for peace.
