The Alabama Department of Public Safety says a man was killed on Saturday after being involved in a motorcycle crash.
35-year-old John Walker was fatally injured after wrecking his ’96 Kawasaki motorcycle on Birmingham Jasper Road around 10:00 p.m. It happened 2 miles north of Graysville.
Walker was transported to the Jefferson County Coroner’s office.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Two children rescued from burning home by firefighters
A house fire on Argonne Drive in Center Point endangered a large family overnight. Fire investigators say eight people were inside the house at the time of the blaze.
Fire crews received the call around 1:40 a.m. on Thursday morning. When they arrived at the scene, most everyone had made it out of the home, but two children were still trapped inside.
Firefighters were able to rescue the children. They were transported to Children’s Hospital in stable condition.
Investigators believe the fire started in the kitchen of the home.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Fire crews received the call around 1:40 a.m. on Thursday morning. When they arrived at the scene, most everyone had made it out of the home, but two children were still trapped inside.
Firefighters were able to rescue the children. They were transported to Children’s Hospital in stable condition.
Investigators believe the fire started in the kitchen of the home.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Deadly shooting under investigation in Center Point
Jefferson County Sheriff's deputies are investigating a deadly shooting.
That shooting took place in Center Point around midnight at a home on 4th Place Northwest. The county coroner was called to the scene.
At this hour, we do not know the identity of the victim.
We will work to update this story for you as more information becomes available.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
That shooting took place in Center Point around midnight at a home on 4th Place Northwest. The county coroner was called to the scene.
At this hour, we do not know the identity of the victim.
We will work to update this story for you as more information becomes available.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
The Hueytown Police Department is asking for help in locating a missing senior citizen.
The Hueytown Police Department is asking for help in locating a missing senior citizen.
70-year-old Donald Webster Autry was last seen on July 26th around 3:00 a.m. at his Hueytown residence. He left in a gray, 4-door, 2008 G35 Infiniti with the tag number 1B15B69.
Autry is described as a white male, 5’11”, 160 lbs. with gray hair and brown eyes. He wears glasses and is possibly wearing a long sleeve white polo t-shirt, dark long workout pants and gray New Balance tennis shoes.
He may have traveled to Birmingham or Tuscaloosa.
If you have any information please contact the Hueytown Police Department at (205) 491-3523.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
70-year-old Donald Webster Autry was last seen on July 26th around 3:00 a.m. at his Hueytown residence. He left in a gray, 4-door, 2008 G35 Infiniti with the tag number 1B15B69.
Autry is described as a white male, 5’11”, 160 lbs. with gray hair and brown eyes. He wears glasses and is possibly wearing a long sleeve white polo t-shirt, dark long workout pants and gray New Balance tennis shoes.
He may have traveled to Birmingham or Tuscaloosa.
If you have any information please contact the Hueytown Police Department at (205) 491-3523.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Shooting investigation becomes homicide investigation
The Birmingham Police Department says a shooting incident has become a homicide after the victim passed away.
24-year-old Demetrius Jones was injured in a shooting on July 21st around noon in the 1100 block of Cotton Avenue. He was pronounced deceased on Tuesday at UAB Hospital.
No arrests or charges have been filed in this case.
If there is anyone who has information pertaining to the case, they are encouraged to contact the B.P.D. Homicide Unit at 254-1764 or Crime Stopper @ 254-7777.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
24-year-old Demetrius Jones was injured in a shooting on July 21st around noon in the 1100 block of Cotton Avenue. He was pronounced deceased on Tuesday at UAB Hospital.
No arrests or charges have been filed in this case.
If there is anyone who has information pertaining to the case, they are encouraged to contact the B.P.D. Homicide Unit at 254-1764 or Crime Stopper @ 254-7777.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
One killed in single vehicle accident in Harpersville
The Alabama Department of Public Safety says one person was killed in a single vehicle accident in Harpersville on Monday.
It happened just before 1:30 p.m. on Highway 280.
26-year-old Arlen Williams was fatally injured while traveling in a ’97 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
It happened just before 1:30 p.m. on Highway 280.
26-year-old Arlen Williams was fatally injured while traveling in a ’97 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Suspect arrested in connection to man's death
The Birmingham Police Department says they have arrested a suspect in connection to a man’s death.
44-year-old James McGee died on July 24th after being injured on July 14th in the 10 block of 14th Street North. McGee had suffered a broken neck and paralysis after he was pushed from a loading dock. He was pronounced deceased at UAB Hospital.
34-year-old Randy Kukla is facing a manslaughter charge. Investigators say Kukla was involved in the altercation that led to the victim’s fall. He is being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
44-year-old James McGee died on July 24th after being injured on July 14th in the 10 block of 14th Street North. McGee had suffered a broken neck and paralysis after he was pushed from a loading dock. He was pronounced deceased at UAB Hospital.
34-year-old Randy Kukla is facing a manslaughter charge. Investigators say Kukla was involved in the altercation that led to the victim’s fall. He is being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Job Fair to be held for Jeffco workers on administrative leave
There is help coming for hundreds of Jefferson County workers currently on unpaid administrative leave.
Jefferson County will host a job fair Tuesday. It starts at 2:30 p.m. and ends at 4:30 p.m. at Center Point Satellite Courthouse.
The Jefferson County Commission, along with several companies will host the job fair.
The event is for employees who are currently on unpaid leave with the county.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jefferson County will host a job fair Tuesday. It starts at 2:30 p.m. and ends at 4:30 p.m. at Center Point Satellite Courthouse.
The Jefferson County Commission, along with several companies will host the job fair.
The event is for employees who are currently on unpaid leave with the county.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Jeffco could make big decisions in special meeting
This week, we could get more information about Jefferson County’s financial future. There is a specially-called county commission meeting Thursday.
As it stands, there are four options that commissioners could decide on during that meeting. Options include an agreement with creditors to extend a standstill agreement or approve a settlement with those same creditors that would also call for some help from the legislature to restore the money the county lost when the occupational tax was struck down.
Commissioners could also authorities Commission President David Carrington to hire a California law firm that specializes in municipal bankruptcy and begin filing for the nation's biggest chapter 9 bankruptcy ever. Lastly, they could approve a resolution authorizing Carrington to file for bankruptcy. That meeting scheduled for Thursday at 1:00 p.m.
Commissioners met all day last Thursday with bankruptcy experts about their options. Commissioners have not heard back from their creditors on a plan they submitted that would cut more than a billion dollars off their debt, refinance the rest, and call for single-digit rate increases for the next several years.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
As it stands, there are four options that commissioners could decide on during that meeting. Options include an agreement with creditors to extend a standstill agreement or approve a settlement with those same creditors that would also call for some help from the legislature to restore the money the county lost when the occupational tax was struck down.
Commissioners could also authorities Commission President David Carrington to hire a California law firm that specializes in municipal bankruptcy and begin filing for the nation's biggest chapter 9 bankruptcy ever. Lastly, they could approve a resolution authorizing Carrington to file for bankruptcy. That meeting scheduled for Thursday at 1:00 p.m.
Commissioners met all day last Thursday with bankruptcy experts about their options. Commissioners have not heard back from their creditors on a plan they submitted that would cut more than a billion dollars off their debt, refinance the rest, and call for single-digit rate increases for the next several years.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Alabama Power to begin placing solar panels on utility poles
Alabama Power is installing solar panels on some utility poles in Birmingham. It is part of a study the company is doing involving solar power technologies.
The installs are not large enough to power more than a couple light bulbs. Researchers are just testing the panels to see how well they work in the southern climate and to see if it could work in our area.
In addition to the solar panels on utility poles, the company is installing panels at select Alabama Power facilities.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The installs are not large enough to power more than a couple light bulbs. Researchers are just testing the panels to see how well they work in the southern climate and to see if it could work in our area.
In addition to the solar panels on utility poles, the company is installing panels at select Alabama Power facilities.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Mark Ingram involved in wreck in Huntsville
Heisman Trophy winner and former Alabama running back Mark Ingram was involved in a traffic crash in Huntsville on Friday morning.
Our Raycom sister station WAFF confirms that Ingram's car collided with an 18-wheeler on Leeman Ferry Road just before 1:00 a.m. Ingram's girlfriend was in the vehicle.
Huntsville police say no one was injured.
Ingram was the New Orleans Saints first round draft choice.
Police are not commenting on who is at fault, but they say alcohol did not play a part.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Our Raycom sister station WAFF confirms that Ingram's car collided with an 18-wheeler on Leeman Ferry Road just before 1:00 a.m. Ingram's girlfriend was in the vehicle.
Huntsville police say no one was injured.
Ingram was the New Orleans Saints first round draft choice.
Police are not commenting on who is at fault, but they say alcohol did not play a part.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Jeffco leaders meeting with bankruptcy attorneys
A meeting on Thursday morning could shape Jefferson County’s financial future. County commissioners will meet with bankruptcy lawyers to weigh the county's options in a closed door meeting at the county courthouse. They want to discuss what would happen if the county declares bankruptcy.
The commission has hired a consulting firm to help fix the county's fiscal problems and develop a chapter nine bankruptcy strategy for restructuring. They want Wall Street creditors to drop about $1.3 billion of the more than $3 billion sewer debt.
Commissioners also want creditors like JP Morgan to accept single digit rate hikes every year. At the same time, they want those creditors to establish a fund for sewer customers who cannot afford the rate hikes.
If Jefferson County does file for chapter nine, it will be the largest bankruptcy for any municipality in the country, surpassing Orange County, California’s filing in 1994.
One of the attorneys that will be present during the meeting, Kenneth Klee, guided Orange County’s case. The filing would end the sewer debt crisis but will not help the county recover the loss of occupational tax revenue.
The meeting gets underway at 10:00 a.m.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The commission has hired a consulting firm to help fix the county's fiscal problems and develop a chapter nine bankruptcy strategy for restructuring. They want Wall Street creditors to drop about $1.3 billion of the more than $3 billion sewer debt.
Commissioners also want creditors like JP Morgan to accept single digit rate hikes every year. At the same time, they want those creditors to establish a fund for sewer customers who cannot afford the rate hikes.
If Jefferson County does file for chapter nine, it will be the largest bankruptcy for any municipality in the country, surpassing Orange County, California’s filing in 1994.
One of the attorneys that will be present during the meeting, Kenneth Klee, guided Orange County’s case. The filing would end the sewer debt crisis but will not help the county recover the loss of occupational tax revenue.
The meeting gets underway at 10:00 a.m.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Time set for Alabama’s game against North Texas
The kickoff time for the University of Alabama’s football game against North Texas at Bryant-Denny Stadium has been set.
The game will kickoff at 6:30 p.m. on September 17th.
Alabama’s season opener will be against Kent State on September 3rd and their second game will be on September 10th at Penn State.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The game will kickoff at 6:30 p.m. on September 17th.
Alabama’s season opener will be against Kent State on September 3rd and their second game will be on September 10th at Penn State.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Man charged with attempted murder after knife fight
A man is now charged with attempted murder after a knife fight with his brother-in-law.
Ronald Cooley is accused of slashing his brother-in-law's throat during the fight.
It happened Friday off Clements Road in Tuscaloosa County.
Authorities charged Cooley after doctors treated him for his injuries and released him from DCH Hospital.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Ronald Cooley is accused of slashing his brother-in-law's throat during the fight.
It happened Friday off Clements Road in Tuscaloosa County.
Authorities charged Cooley after doctors treated him for his injuries and released him from DCH Hospital.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Residents concerned over Village Creek pollution
People who live along Village Creek in Birmingham and western Jefferson County are asking for help. They say pollution has been killing family members for generations.
Dozens turned out on Wednesday for a meeting at East Ensley Library. They voiced concerns about pollutants contaminating the areas surrounding Village Creek and the Black Warrior River.
Jimmie Smith Blames contamination for the cancer deaths of his mother and daughter.
"Every cancer known to man, brain, breast, stomach, liver, heart, whatever, she had it," said Smith during the meeting.
Government officials from the EPA and the Justice Department saw the problem firsthand. The group toured the Black Warrior River Tuesday and a portion of Village Creek in Ensley.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Dozens turned out on Wednesday for a meeting at East Ensley Library. They voiced concerns about pollutants contaminating the areas surrounding Village Creek and the Black Warrior River.
Jimmie Smith Blames contamination for the cancer deaths of his mother and daughter.
"Every cancer known to man, brain, breast, stomach, liver, heart, whatever, she had it," said Smith during the meeting.
Government officials from the EPA and the Justice Department saw the problem firsthand. The group toured the Black Warrior River Tuesday and a portion of Village Creek in Ensley.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Families get relief checks from realtors association
A group of realtors is offering help to some storm survivors. On Wednesday, they handed out checks to four families hit by the April tornadoes.
The families were from several different affected areas; Concord, Hueytown and Birmingham. They received grants from the National and Alabama Associations of Realtors through a disaster fund set up by realtors.
Each family received checks of different amounts based off of the damage to their homes. The families were also given a bin full of supplies they may need during their recovery. The realtor associations decided to present the funds in another area affected by the tornados: Pleasant Grove.
The families who received the grants today they say they are so thankful for the funds as they start the process of rebuilding.
“The kindness and thoughtfulness is going to make our journey of starting our financial and emotional life as we start over easier and we appreciate it,” said Barbara Foster, who lost her home in the tornado.
“In Pleasant Grove, we are encouraged,” said Pleasant Grove Mayor Jerry Braseale. “Al the hammering you hear, you'll see it throughout the path. People are back building and remodeling and we are really encouraged by the people that have started back.”
The Alabama Association of Realtors says they have an office building full of supplies. They also have storage space for people who need it as they rebuild.
Those in need can contact the association at 205-222-4894. Proof of damage will be required for the assistance.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The families were from several different affected areas; Concord, Hueytown and Birmingham. They received grants from the National and Alabama Associations of Realtors through a disaster fund set up by realtors.
Each family received checks of different amounts based off of the damage to their homes. The families were also given a bin full of supplies they may need during their recovery. The realtor associations decided to present the funds in another area affected by the tornados: Pleasant Grove.
The families who received the grants today they say they are so thankful for the funds as they start the process of rebuilding.
“The kindness and thoughtfulness is going to make our journey of starting our financial and emotional life as we start over easier and we appreciate it,” said Barbara Foster, who lost her home in the tornado.
“In Pleasant Grove, we are encouraged,” said Pleasant Grove Mayor Jerry Braseale. “Al the hammering you hear, you'll see it throughout the path. People are back building and remodeling and we are really encouraged by the people that have started back.”
The Alabama Association of Realtors says they have an office building full of supplies. They also have storage space for people who need it as they rebuild.
Those in need can contact the association at 205-222-4894. Proof of damage will be required for the assistance.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Bond increased for attempted murder suspect in Tuscaloosa
A Tuscaloosa judge has increased the bond for a man accused of trying to kill his neighbor.
Bonds against Billy Ray White were doubled to more than $120,000.
The Tuscaloosa city attorney's office says the bonds were raised because of pending menacing and harassment charges filed against White before his arrest last week.
Neighbors say White put up racially insensitive signs in his yard and then shot at a black neighbor for reading them last Wednesday.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Bonds against Billy Ray White were doubled to more than $120,000.
The Tuscaloosa city attorney's office says the bonds were raised because of pending menacing and harassment charges filed against White before his arrest last week.
Neighbors say White put up racially insensitive signs in his yard and then shot at a black neighbor for reading them last Wednesday.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Suspect arrested in connection to Ensley homicide
Birmingham police say they have taken a suspect into custody in connection to a shooting that occurred in Ensley on Thursday.
34-year-old Danny Harvey is facing a murder warrant for the death of 28-year-old Marcus Evans.
Harvey was taken into custody the same day as the shooting in the 1700 block of Princeton Avenue Southwest. He is being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
34-year-old Danny Harvey is facing a murder warrant for the death of 28-year-old Marcus Evans.
Harvey was taken into custody the same day as the shooting in the 1700 block of Princeton Avenue Southwest. He is being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Local chef Guillermo Castro passes away
Guillermo Castro, the well-known owner of Birmingham’s Sol y Luna and Cantina restaurants has died.
Chefs and a business associate of the 52-year-old restaurateur say he apparently died overnight of a heart attack.
Castro, who was born in Mexico, opened Sol y Luna in 1997. He slowly grew his restaurant business with Cantina restaurants at Pepper Place, Inverness and franchises in Hoover's Patton Creek and Montgomery.
Known as a devoted father and supporter of community events, Castro was a regular chef on Good Day Alabama.
Guillermo Castro was 52.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Chefs and a business associate of the 52-year-old restaurateur say he apparently died overnight of a heart attack.
Castro, who was born in Mexico, opened Sol y Luna in 1997. He slowly grew his restaurant business with Cantina restaurants at Pepper Place, Inverness and franchises in Hoover's Patton Creek and Montgomery.
Known as a devoted father and supporter of community events, Castro was a regular chef on Good Day Alabama.
Guillermo Castro was 52.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
House Speaker says new immigration law may be tweaked
Alabama House Speaker Mike Hubbard admits not all of the state's new immigration law may go into effect.
Hubbard told the Madison County Republican Men's Club over the weekend that he expects parts of the law to be struck down.
He says lawmakers are prepared to tweak the legislation if necessary...
Multiple nonprofit agencies and individuals have filed a lawsuit against the law.
The law takes effect September first.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Hubbard told the Madison County Republican Men's Club over the weekend that he expects parts of the law to be struck down.
He says lawmakers are prepared to tweak the legislation if necessary...
Multiple nonprofit agencies and individuals have filed a lawsuit against the law.
The law takes effect September first.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Thieves steal entire ATM in Fairfield
In Fairfield, thieves smashed into the Jet Pep on Aaron Aronov Drive to steal an entire ATM.
This latest burglary has left the manager of the Jet Pep very upset. He says he is not sure how much money was inside the ATM that was taken.
Fairfield police are investigating the incident trying to see if it's linked to two other recent ATM burglaries, one in Midfield that happened this week and the other in Ensley.
The manager says while police do their work looking for who is responsible, he will clean up the mess left behind.
“You work hard every day trying to do something right and this is the answer of what they do to you,” said store manager Ali Morshedi. ”They come down and destroy everything you work so hard for. I mean it's just heart breaking.”
Authorities have video from the ATM burglary in Ensley on 20th Street. The entire ATM was stolen also from a Jet Pep. It happened on June 17th. Birmingham police are still looking for the people responsible for this incident.
Fairfield police are looking into a connection between these burglaries and say they do have surveillance video from this latest incident, but they are not releasing it yet.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
This latest burglary has left the manager of the Jet Pep very upset. He says he is not sure how much money was inside the ATM that was taken.
Fairfield police are investigating the incident trying to see if it's linked to two other recent ATM burglaries, one in Midfield that happened this week and the other in Ensley.
The manager says while police do their work looking for who is responsible, he will clean up the mess left behind.
“You work hard every day trying to do something right and this is the answer of what they do to you,” said store manager Ali Morshedi. ”They come down and destroy everything you work so hard for. I mean it's just heart breaking.”
Authorities have video from the ATM burglary in Ensley on 20th Street. The entire ATM was stolen also from a Jet Pep. It happened on June 17th. Birmingham police are still looking for the people responsible for this incident.
Fairfield police are looking into a connection between these burglaries and say they do have surveillance video from this latest incident, but they are not releasing it yet.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Copper and metal thefts on the rise in Irondale
Irondale police say they have seen a major increase in copper and metal thefts. Detectives say since April they have looked into about a dozen cases. That compares to "two" cases of copper and metal thefts at the start of the year.
Police say the thieves are hitting homes and businesses. At one business, the entire electrical system was ripped out, causing about $25,000 worth of damage.
"I really think this is probably several different groups of guys going out and committing these thefts. We need people, citizens, to keep an eye out and call us if they see anything suspicious," said Detective Michael Mangina with the Irondale Police Department.
Irondale police just set up a tip line to report crime without giving your name. That number is 951-7574.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Police say the thieves are hitting homes and businesses. At one business, the entire electrical system was ripped out, causing about $25,000 worth of damage.
"I really think this is probably several different groups of guys going out and committing these thefts. We need people, citizens, to keep an eye out and call us if they see anything suspicious," said Detective Michael Mangina with the Irondale Police Department.
Irondale police just set up a tip line to report crime without giving your name. That number is 951-7574.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Hispanic Group wants apology from Alabama Congressman
A national Hispanic group wants an apology from Alabama Congressman Mo Brooks.
Brooks said in a TV interview last month that he would do "anything short of shooting them," referring to illegal immigrants.
The group, Somos Republicans is asking Brooks to apologize for his remarks and work with his colleagues to help fix the nation's broken immigration system.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Brooks said in a TV interview last month that he would do "anything short of shooting them," referring to illegal immigrants.
The group, Somos Republicans is asking Brooks to apologize for his remarks and work with his colleagues to help fix the nation's broken immigration system.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Man charged with attempted murder after racism scuffle
Neighbors in one west Alabama community claim racism led to an afternoon shooting.
Billy Ray White of Tuscaloosa is charged with attempted murder for a shooting on Wednesday afternoon.
Neighbors claim White began putting racist signs in his yard over the last few months. When another neighbor looked at this while walking down the street, White began fighting the man in the middle of the street.
"The guy put a whooping on him. And when the man starting walking home thinking it was over with, the next door neighbor Billy White went back in his house, got his shotgun, started firing at the man. Missed him but shot at his house though," said witness Eddie Eatmon, Jr.
White is being held in the Tuscaloosa County Jail on bonds of more than $50,000.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Billy Ray White of Tuscaloosa is charged with attempted murder for a shooting on Wednesday afternoon.
Neighbors claim White began putting racist signs in his yard over the last few months. When another neighbor looked at this while walking down the street, White began fighting the man in the middle of the street.
"The guy put a whooping on him. And when the man starting walking home thinking it was over with, the next door neighbor Billy White went back in his house, got his shotgun, started firing at the man. Missed him but shot at his house though," said witness Eddie Eatmon, Jr.
White is being held in the Tuscaloosa County Jail on bonds of more than $50,000.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
One killed, one injured in Jasper shooting
Jasper police say one person was killed and another injured in an overnight shooting in the west part of the city.
It happened around 3:00 a.m. on the 2200 block of 13th Avenue.
Investigators are not giving much information other than they are searching for a suspect in the case.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
It happened around 3:00 a.m. on the 2200 block of 13th Avenue.
Investigators are not giving much information other than they are searching for a suspect in the case.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Abandoned car believed to be filled with explosive in St. Clair County
Randy Christian with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department says a vehicle found along Interstate 20 is believed to have several explosive devices inside.
According to Christian, St. Clair County requested their help around 8:20 a.m. with the disabled vehicle.
The vehicle is near mile marker 162 between Pell City and Riverside. The interstate has not been closed down at this time.
Randy Christian says Jefferson County bomb technicians are on the scene.
Stay with this story for more info as it develops.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
According to Christian, St. Clair County requested their help around 8:20 a.m. with the disabled vehicle.
The vehicle is near mile marker 162 between Pell City and Riverside. The interstate has not been closed down at this time.
Randy Christian says Jefferson County bomb technicians are on the scene.
Stay with this story for more info as it develops.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Quarter of a million dollars offered to help rebuild
The people behind last month's Bama Rising concert are giving away a quarter of a million dollars to rebuild and furnish homes in devastated communities.
Opportunities were coordinated with long term recovery committees established across Alabama.
More grants are planned soon, as other hard-hit areas of the state become ready to allocate funds for unmet tornado recovery needs.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Opportunities were coordinated with long term recovery committees established across Alabama.
More grants are planned soon, as other hard-hit areas of the state become ready to allocate funds for unmet tornado recovery needs.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Rihanna concert raises $250K for storm victims
There is good news from Monday night's “Tragedy to Triumph” Rihanna concert for tornado relief in Birmingham. Mayor William Bell's office tells FOX6 News the concert raised $250,000 for Tuscaloosa and Birmingham.
One of the organizations benefitting is Project Team Up in Tuscaloosa. UA professor Riz Shakir heads up that group's relief efforts and he says this money will make a difference.
“You know what we're looking to do is to marry up the expertise of people who are willing to volunteer their time with the funds that people like Rihanna can help us raise so that those people who would otherwise not be able to get back into their homes can get back in their homes," said Shakir.
Shakir also says they are working on bringing other concerts to Alabama to continue to raise money for tornado relief. He would not give us any names yet, but he says some big names are close to committing.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
One of the organizations benefitting is Project Team Up in Tuscaloosa. UA professor Riz Shakir heads up that group's relief efforts and he says this money will make a difference.
“You know what we're looking to do is to marry up the expertise of people who are willing to volunteer their time with the funds that people like Rihanna can help us raise so that those people who would otherwise not be able to get back into their homes can get back in their homes," said Shakir.
Shakir also says they are working on bringing other concerts to Alabama to continue to raise money for tornado relief. He would not give us any names yet, but he says some big names are close to committing.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham leaders to testify before Congress
Some Birmingham city will be testifying before Congress on Wednesday to make sure the government continues to deliver on promises to fund ongoing tornado relief for the city.
Hundreds of homes were damaged or destroyed during the April 27th tornadoes. The city still needs money for clean-up and rebuilding.
FEMA has spent millions helping residents. Mayor William Bell, along with Council President Roderick Royal will join Senator Richard Shelby to remind Congress of the need for more financial help.
Chuck Faush with the mayor’s office says Mayor Bell will continue to keep pressure on Congress as long as Birmingham needs help during the long term recovery from the storms.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Hundreds of homes were damaged or destroyed during the April 27th tornadoes. The city still needs money for clean-up and rebuilding.
FEMA has spent millions helping residents. Mayor William Bell, along with Council President Roderick Royal will join Senator Richard Shelby to remind Congress of the need for more financial help.
Chuck Faush with the mayor’s office says Mayor Bell will continue to keep pressure on Congress as long as Birmingham needs help during the long term recovery from the storms.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Recovery workers affected by severe heat
Workers in tornado zones are having to deal with severe heat.
A light rain in the tornado-ravaged Webster’s Chapel community in Calhoun County helped both construction workers and volunteers on Tuesday. The area is in the midst of a major rebuilding effort and there are still areas being cleared of debris.
Volunteers from the Harmony Church in Sumnter, South Carolina said Tuesday was much better than Monday, when they worked in the birmingham area with much higher humidity.
“Well, drink a lot of water, take a lot of breaks, and pray a lot,” said Ralph Peebles. “But we've had to deal with some heat so far, but today is perfect.”
That group will be in Alabama all week, and is working with the Birmingham-based Christian service mission.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
A light rain in the tornado-ravaged Webster’s Chapel community in Calhoun County helped both construction workers and volunteers on Tuesday. The area is in the midst of a major rebuilding effort and there are still areas being cleared of debris.
Volunteers from the Harmony Church in Sumnter, South Carolina said Tuesday was much better than Monday, when they worked in the birmingham area with much higher humidity.
“Well, drink a lot of water, take a lot of breaks, and pray a lot,” said Ralph Peebles. “But we've had to deal with some heat so far, but today is perfect.”
That group will be in Alabama all week, and is working with the Birmingham-based Christian service mission.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
One week left for FEMA and SBA applications
You have less than a week to get your FEMA and SBA applications complete. The deadline is Monday.
If you have questions:
The sba hotline is 1-800 659 29-55.
FEMA's hotline is 1-800 621 33-62.
You can more information in the "Road to Recovery" section of myfoxal.com.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
If you have questions:
The sba hotline is 1-800 659 29-55.
FEMA's hotline is 1-800 621 33-62.
You can more information in the "Road to Recovery" section of myfoxal.com.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Four young adults arrested on burglary charges
The Birmingham Police Department says they have taken four suspects into custody on robbery charges.
Investigators say around 1:55 a.m. on July 6th, the suspects pulled along side the victim’s vehicle and presented a handgun. The victim pulled over to the side of the road in the 1800 block of Fulton Avenue. The suspects then demanded money and property from the four victims in the vehicle before leaving the scene. No one was injured.
A West Precinct officer who had finished the report later observed a vehicle similar to the description given by the victims in the 5 Points West Area on Bessemer Road. A traffic stop revealed the suspects to be in custody of the property reported to be taken during the robbery.
18-year-old Crystal Glover, 20-year-old Charles Williams, 19-year-old Benjamin Williams and 19-year-old Lanard Sims are all charged with four counts of robbery. They are being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Investigators say around 1:55 a.m. on July 6th, the suspects pulled along side the victim’s vehicle and presented a handgun. The victim pulled over to the side of the road in the 1800 block of Fulton Avenue. The suspects then demanded money and property from the four victims in the vehicle before leaving the scene. No one was injured.
A West Precinct officer who had finished the report later observed a vehicle similar to the description given by the victims in the 5 Points West Area on Bessemer Road. A traffic stop revealed the suspects to be in custody of the property reported to be taken during the robbery.
18-year-old Crystal Glover, 20-year-old Charles Williams, 19-year-old Benjamin Williams and 19-year-old Lanard Sims are all charged with four counts of robbery. They are being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Special meeting called to begin search for state school superintendent
The governor has called a special State Board of Education meeting for Tuesday to begin work on finding a new state school superintendent.
Current superintendent Dr. Joe Morton plans to retire at the end of August.
The meeting will develop the timeline for hiring a replacement and establish the procedure for applicants to apply.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Current superintendent Dr. Joe Morton plans to retire at the end of August.
The meeting will develop the timeline for hiring a replacement and establish the procedure for applicants to apply.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Man charged with impersonating a police officer to commit robberies
Tuscaloosa deputies have arrested a man they say was pretending to be a police officer in order to rob people.
Deputies say Alan Scott Livingston used a blue light on the dash of his vehicle to force an SUV off the road. Investigators say Livingston tried to force his way into the victim's vehicle to rob him but he got away unharmed. The victim got Livingston's tag number and dialed 911.
Livingston was arrested and is facing several charges.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Deputies say Alan Scott Livingston used a blue light on the dash of his vehicle to force an SUV off the road. Investigators say Livingston tried to force his way into the victim's vehicle to rob him but he got away unharmed. The victim got Livingston's tag number and dialed 911.
Livingston was arrested and is facing several charges.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Police investigating overnight homicide
Birmingham police detectives are investigating an overnight homicide on Tuesday morning. It happened just before 1:00 a.m. in the 2100 block of Avenue Z.
Officers arrived to find an unidentified victim lying in the street suffering from a gunshot wound. Paramedics pronounced the victim dead on the scene.
No arrests or charges have been filed in this case so far.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Officers arrived to find an unidentified victim lying in the street suffering from a gunshot wound. Paramedics pronounced the victim dead on the scene.
No arrests or charges have been filed in this case so far.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Fans enjoy Rihanna benefit concert
One of pop's biggest stars did her part for the tornado relief effort here in Alabama. Rihanna performed to a nearly sold out crowd Monday night at the BJCC. She added a stop in Birmingham on her "Get Loud" tour.
Rihanna performed some of her biggest hits including "Only Girl in the World" and "What's My Name?"
There is no word yet on just how much money was raised from last night's show.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Rihanna performed some of her biggest hits including "Only Girl in the World" and "What's My Name?"
There is no word yet on just how much money was raised from last night's show.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Domestic disturbance leads to stolen property
A domestic disturbance call led Tuscaloosa Sheriff's deputies to several stolen items at a home in Tuscaloosa.
Deputies responded to the 1400 block of Crescent Ridge Road Northeast. The suspect, 29-year-old Robert Lee Pickett, Jr., was arrested and charged with receiving stolen property first degree along with Domestic Violence-menacing.
As the investigation continues into the stolen items, more charges could be coming.
Pickett is currently in the Tuscaloosa County Jail on $21,000 bond.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Deputies responded to the 1400 block of Crescent Ridge Road Northeast. The suspect, 29-year-old Robert Lee Pickett, Jr., was arrested and charged with receiving stolen property first degree along with Domestic Violence-menacing.
As the investigation continues into the stolen items, more charges could be coming.
Pickett is currently in the Tuscaloosa County Jail on $21,000 bond.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Homicide under investigation in Leeds
The Jefferson County Coroner says he has identified the victim of a homicide that occurred over the weekend.
The incident happened in the 8100 block of Douglas Avenue in Leeds around 1:48 a.m. on Sunday.
22-year-old Thomas Hopkins has been identified as the victim.
The case is still under investigation.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The incident happened in the 8100 block of Douglas Avenue in Leeds around 1:48 a.m. on Sunday.
22-year-old Thomas Hopkins has been identified as the victim.
The case is still under investigation.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Deadly weekend leaves 3 dead in 3 separate accidents
It was a deadly weekend on Alabama’s roadways as three people died in three separate accidents.
A 58-year-old Warrior woman was killed in a single vehicle accident Saturday night. State troopers say Debra Hayes was in her ‘79 Chevrolet truck about 5 miles west of Hayden when she died. There is no word on the cause of the accident.
Another person was killed and one injured in an accident just one mile west of Clay in Jefferson County. That accident happened on Clay Palmerdale Road just before 9:00 p.m. on Saturday night. 27-year-old Lindsey Ray Hollis of Leeds was killed in the wreck. 28-year-old Heather Rose McMaster of Pelham was injured and was transported to UAB Hospital.
One person died after a two vehicle accident that happened one mile south of Jasper in Walker County. That wreck happened Sunday morning. 36-year-old Gregory Jenkins from Antioch, Tennessee died in that crash.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
A 58-year-old Warrior woman was killed in a single vehicle accident Saturday night. State troopers say Debra Hayes was in her ‘79 Chevrolet truck about 5 miles west of Hayden when she died. There is no word on the cause of the accident.
Another person was killed and one injured in an accident just one mile west of Clay in Jefferson County. That accident happened on Clay Palmerdale Road just before 9:00 p.m. on Saturday night. 27-year-old Lindsey Ray Hollis of Leeds was killed in the wreck. 28-year-old Heather Rose McMaster of Pelham was injured and was transported to UAB Hospital.
One person died after a two vehicle accident that happened one mile south of Jasper in Walker County. That wreck happened Sunday morning. 36-year-old Gregory Jenkins from Antioch, Tennessee died in that crash.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham City Council considering consulting contract
Birmingham's city council will take another run this week at two contracts that would bring in consultants to help the city attract new businesses to town.
The council delayed a vote last week on the contracts worth more than $200,000 to hire consultants to help the city apply for economic development tax credits.
They would also try to attract new businesses to the area around the new entertainment district downtown and the new metro crossplex in Five Points West.
The new indoor track and pool facility at Fairpark will open in early August, and the entertainment district next to the new Westin Hotel should be open by early 2013.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The council delayed a vote last week on the contracts worth more than $200,000 to hire consultants to help the city apply for economic development tax credits.
They would also try to attract new businesses to the area around the new entertainment district downtown and the new metro crossplex in Five Points West.
The new indoor track and pool facility at Fairpark will open in early August, and the entertainment district next to the new Westin Hotel should be open by early 2013.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, July 8, 2011
Meetings will focus on Birmingham's future
A series of meetings running into next year will focus on Birmingham’s development in the future. This is fairly routine for many cities and regions to put together a strategic plan for five, ten or even 20 years down the road.
Birmingham has not done this in 50 years. That changes now.
On Friday morning, Birmingham Mayor William Bell introduced the team that will work on Birmingham’s comprehensive plan. Simply put, it looks at what the people and leaders want the city to focus on 20 years down the road.
The consultant firm "Goody Clancy" will coordinate the effort at a cost of $570,000.
Mayor Bell wants special emphasis on tornado damaged communities and how they factor into the city's future. Meetings and workshops begin in the fall and stretch into the winter.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham has not done this in 50 years. That changes now.
On Friday morning, Birmingham Mayor William Bell introduced the team that will work on Birmingham’s comprehensive plan. Simply put, it looks at what the people and leaders want the city to focus on 20 years down the road.
The consultant firm "Goody Clancy" will coordinate the effort at a cost of $570,000.
Mayor Bell wants special emphasis on tornado damaged communities and how they factor into the city's future. Meetings and workshops begin in the fall and stretch into the winter.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
No new judge for Siegelman, Scrushy
There will be no new judge for former Governor Don Siegleman and HealthSouth founder Richard Scrushy.
A federal judge is refusing to order Judge Mark Fuller to step down from deciding whether the men should get a new trial.
Fuller presided over their 2006 trial and sentenced both to federal prison.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
A federal judge is refusing to order Judge Mark Fuller to step down from deciding whether the men should get a new trial.
Fuller presided over their 2006 trial and sentenced both to federal prison.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Mobile bests Barons 9-4
Marc Krauss and A.J. Pollock combined for five RBI as the Mobile BayBears (11-4, 49-36) mastered the Birmingham Barons (7-8, 47-38), 9-4, in front of 3,970 fans Thursday night at Regions Park.
The BayBears took an early 2-0 advantage in the top of the first when Adam Eaton was hit by a pitch and Pollock reached on the force out at second base. Paul Goldschmidt followed with a RBI single to right field that plated Pollock for the first run of the game. Goldschmidt advanced to second on a fielding error by Jose Martinez. A RBI double to right field by Ryan Wheeler delivered Goldschmidt.
Josh Ford singled to center-field before Jacob Elmore and Ollie Linton both received walks in the top of the second. With the bases loaded, Eaton reached on a fielder’s choice with a RBI single that drove home Ford. A sacrifice fly by Pollock plated Elmore and increased the BayBears lead, 4-0.
In the top of the fifth inning, Eaton was hit by a pitch and continued to second on Wheeler’s line-drive single to left field. Taylor Harbin followed with a single to third that advanced Eaton and Wheeler before Krauss smacked a RBI double to left field that cleared the bases, 7-0.
Mobile added two additional runs in the top of the sixth inning with a key RBI double by Pollock and a sacrifice fly by Goldschmidt, 9-0.
In the sixth inning the Barons answered with one run after Alden Carrithers blasted a triple to right-center field and sprinted home on a sacrifice fly by Brandon Short, 9-1.
Birmingham added three runs in the bottom of the eighth inning as Carrithers lined a single to second, continued to second base on a single to left by Martinez and rushed home on Christian Marrero’s RBI double to right field. With runners on second and third, Jason Bour ripped a RBI single to center field that delivered Martinez and Marrero, 9-4.
Jarrod Parker (7-6) earned the victory for the BayBears after he tossed 5.0 scoreless IP with 2 hits, 2 walks and 3 strikeouts.
Justin Edwards (3-2) received the loss for the Barons after he surrendered nine earned runs on 9 hits, 3 walks and 1 strikeout in 5.0 IP.
The Barons head to Jackson, TN to take on the Jackson Generals, Double-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners, in a four-game series with first pitch set for 7:05 p.m. Friday night. Right-hander Cameron Bayne (1-0, 3.75) takes the mound for Birmingham while Jackson counters with left-handed pitcher Mauricio Robles (0-0, N/A).
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The BayBears took an early 2-0 advantage in the top of the first when Adam Eaton was hit by a pitch and Pollock reached on the force out at second base. Paul Goldschmidt followed with a RBI single to right field that plated Pollock for the first run of the game. Goldschmidt advanced to second on a fielding error by Jose Martinez. A RBI double to right field by Ryan Wheeler delivered Goldschmidt.
Josh Ford singled to center-field before Jacob Elmore and Ollie Linton both received walks in the top of the second. With the bases loaded, Eaton reached on a fielder’s choice with a RBI single that drove home Ford. A sacrifice fly by Pollock plated Elmore and increased the BayBears lead, 4-0.
In the top of the fifth inning, Eaton was hit by a pitch and continued to second on Wheeler’s line-drive single to left field. Taylor Harbin followed with a single to third that advanced Eaton and Wheeler before Krauss smacked a RBI double to left field that cleared the bases, 7-0.
Mobile added two additional runs in the top of the sixth inning with a key RBI double by Pollock and a sacrifice fly by Goldschmidt, 9-0.
In the sixth inning the Barons answered with one run after Alden Carrithers blasted a triple to right-center field and sprinted home on a sacrifice fly by Brandon Short, 9-1.
Birmingham added three runs in the bottom of the eighth inning as Carrithers lined a single to second, continued to second base on a single to left by Martinez and rushed home on Christian Marrero’s RBI double to right field. With runners on second and third, Jason Bour ripped a RBI single to center field that delivered Martinez and Marrero, 9-4.
Jarrod Parker (7-6) earned the victory for the BayBears after he tossed 5.0 scoreless IP with 2 hits, 2 walks and 3 strikeouts.
Justin Edwards (3-2) received the loss for the Barons after he surrendered nine earned runs on 9 hits, 3 walks and 1 strikeout in 5.0 IP.
The Barons head to Jackson, TN to take on the Jackson Generals, Double-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners, in a four-game series with first pitch set for 7:05 p.m. Friday night. Right-hander Cameron Bayne (1-0, 3.75) takes the mound for Birmingham while Jackson counters with left-handed pitcher Mauricio Robles (0-0, N/A).
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Sewer receiver denied funds transfer
A judge has ruled on the side of Jefferson County in a hearing between the county and the receiver appointed to oversee its sewer system.
Receiver John Young wanted to transfer $60 million of the county's money into an account only he would have control over.
The Jefferson County Commission held a meeting where the county attorney gave a report on the hearing. He said it lasted about 20 minutes and the judge declined the transfer of $60 million into an account that would be controlled solely by John Young.
The county had said previously it believed the move was illegal under state law and the court agreed it was inappropriate.
Young will still have signatory authority over sewer system assets including money. It is a power he was given when first appointed receiver.
Commission President David Carrington says signatory power still gives Young a great deal of control even without the $60 million transfer. He says it is a power his commission is not responsible for.
"That was approved in the bonds that were issued,” said Carrington. “The last commission or the two previous commissions gave the right if we went into receivership, that the receiver would have those powers and it is what it is."
Also in the meeting, commissioners approved putting $18,000 toward keeping the courts open and running. That amount will fund the courts for another two weeks as commissioners work on some long term fixes.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Receiver John Young wanted to transfer $60 million of the county's money into an account only he would have control over.
The Jefferson County Commission held a meeting where the county attorney gave a report on the hearing. He said it lasted about 20 minutes and the judge declined the transfer of $60 million into an account that would be controlled solely by John Young.
The county had said previously it believed the move was illegal under state law and the court agreed it was inappropriate.
Young will still have signatory authority over sewer system assets including money. It is a power he was given when first appointed receiver.
Commission President David Carrington says signatory power still gives Young a great deal of control even without the $60 million transfer. He says it is a power his commission is not responsible for.
"That was approved in the bonds that were issued,” said Carrington. “The last commission or the two previous commissions gave the right if we went into receivership, that the receiver would have those powers and it is what it is."
Also in the meeting, commissioners approved putting $18,000 toward keeping the courts open and running. That amount will fund the courts for another two weeks as commissioners work on some long term fixes.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
More help coming for storm victims
More help is coming from the government in the wake of the April 27th tornadoes.
The July 18th deadline for seeking assistance from FEMA and SBA is getting closer. This week, FEMA's community relations team is helping people apply for loans with the Small Business Administration.
The loans are not just for business owners; homeowners and renters are eligible as well, according to SBA's website.
Trained volunteers will be available at the workshops
In Birmingham, people wanting assistance can head to Mount Moriah Baptist Church in Pratt City from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday evening.
On Friday, people in the Tuscaloosa area can attend the workshop in Vance at the New Harvest Church of God from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
On Saturday there are four workshops in our area. Two are in the Cullman area. The first will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Wallace State College in Hanceville and the other will be from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church on 2nd Avenue in Cullman.
The other workshops Saturday will be in Pratt City at Scott School from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and in Tuscaloosa from 9:00 a.m. to noon at Elizabeth Baptist Church.
If you can't make those workshops there's help over the phone. Just call 1 (800) 659-2955.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The July 18th deadline for seeking assistance from FEMA and SBA is getting closer. This week, FEMA's community relations team is helping people apply for loans with the Small Business Administration.
The loans are not just for business owners; homeowners and renters are eligible as well, according to SBA's website.
Trained volunteers will be available at the workshops
In Birmingham, people wanting assistance can head to Mount Moriah Baptist Church in Pratt City from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday evening.
On Friday, people in the Tuscaloosa area can attend the workshop in Vance at the New Harvest Church of God from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
On Saturday there are four workshops in our area. Two are in the Cullman area. The first will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Wallace State College in Hanceville and the other will be from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church on 2nd Avenue in Cullman.
The other workshops Saturday will be in Pratt City at Scott School from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and in Tuscaloosa from 9:00 a.m. to noon at Elizabeth Baptist Church.
If you can't make those workshops there's help over the phone. Just call 1 (800) 659-2955.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Alabama AG to testify before Congress subcommittee
Alabama Attorney General Luther Strange will testify in a joint hearing in Congress on Thursday. He will speak before a subcommittee on financial institutions and consumer credit.
Strange will talk about mortgage servicers accused of cutting corners to speed up foreclosures.
The Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, Alabama Congressman Spencer Bachus, invited Strange to appear before lawmakers.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Strange will talk about mortgage servicers accused of cutting corners to speed up foreclosures.
The Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, Alabama Congressman Spencer Bachus, invited Strange to appear before lawmakers.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Mobile Baybears beat Barons, 2-0
Patrick Corbin scattered three hits with eight strikeouts and tossed a complete-game shutout as the Mobile BayBears (9-4, 47-36) blanked the Birmingham Barons (7-7, 47-36), 2-0, in front of 2,147 fans Wednesday night at Regions Park. The game was delayed 11 minutes prior to first pitch due to a spot rain shower.
The only runs of the game were scored in the seventh inning when Paul Goldschmidt singled to right field and scored on a Marc Krauss’s single to right field as Krauss advanced to second on the throw to the plate. Taylor Harbin added a RBI single up the middle that drove in Krauss for the second run of the inning, 2-0.
Corbin (7-5) registered the complete-game victory after he scattered 3 hits, 2 walks and 8 strikeouts in 9.0 IP.
Barons starter Terry Doyle (3-3) suffered the hard-luck defeat as the right-hander tossed 9.0 IP with two earned runs on seven hits and six strikeouts. In back-to-back starts at Regions Park for Doyle, he has allowed two earned runs in 18.0 IP.
The Barons and BayBears complete their four-game series Thursday night with first pitch set for 7:05 p.m. at Regions Park. Birmingham sends southpaw Justin Edwards (3-1, 3.86) to the bump while Mobile answers with right-hander Jarrod Parker (6-6, 4.69).
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The only runs of the game were scored in the seventh inning when Paul Goldschmidt singled to right field and scored on a Marc Krauss’s single to right field as Krauss advanced to second on the throw to the plate. Taylor Harbin added a RBI single up the middle that drove in Krauss for the second run of the inning, 2-0.
Corbin (7-5) registered the complete-game victory after he scattered 3 hits, 2 walks and 8 strikeouts in 9.0 IP.
Barons starter Terry Doyle (3-3) suffered the hard-luck defeat as the right-hander tossed 9.0 IP with two earned runs on seven hits and six strikeouts. In back-to-back starts at Regions Park for Doyle, he has allowed two earned runs in 18.0 IP.
The Barons and BayBears complete their four-game series Thursday night with first pitch set for 7:05 p.m. at Regions Park. Birmingham sends southpaw Justin Edwards (3-1, 3.86) to the bump while Mobile answers with right-hander Jarrod Parker (6-6, 4.69).
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Part of Trussville City Hall collapses
Trussville Mayor Gene Melton has confirmed that a part of Trussville City Hall collapsed around 3:00 a.m. on Wednesday.
The section of the building that connects the main building and the drive-under canopy were collapsed. There were no injuries.
Melton says the weight of accumulating water over the years led to the collapse.
City Hall remains open and business is not expected to be affected.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The section of the building that connects the main building and the drive-under canopy were collapsed. There were no injuries.
Melton says the weight of accumulating water over the years led to the collapse.
City Hall remains open and business is not expected to be affected.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Hearing will decide if sewer receiver can transfer funds
The fate of Jefferson County’s sewer system could change Wednesday. Arguments will be heard during a morning hearing over a request to transfer $60 million from the sewer system.
Court appointed receiver John Young says putting $60 million from Jefferson County's sewer system in a separate account will make things easier. He wants to transfer the millions into an account that only he will have the power to control. Young says this move is the best way to collect and distribute sewer money in the future plus he says it will ease record keeping and maintain transparency of the system funds.
The county attorney says it is illegal to move public funds to private corporations, noting that the county's money belongs to the county, not a receiver.
Looking to the future, Birmingham Mayor William Bell fears what will happen if the sewer system issues are not resolved and the county files bankruptcy.
“Well, it would put financial strain on all cities throughout the state as well as state governments,” said Bell. “You will see a rise in interest rates on money we've already borrowed through the issuance of bonds.”
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Court appointed receiver John Young says putting $60 million from Jefferson County's sewer system in a separate account will make things easier. He wants to transfer the millions into an account that only he will have the power to control. Young says this move is the best way to collect and distribute sewer money in the future plus he says it will ease record keeping and maintain transparency of the system funds.
The county attorney says it is illegal to move public funds to private corporations, noting that the county's money belongs to the county, not a receiver.
Looking to the future, Birmingham Mayor William Bell fears what will happen if the sewer system issues are not resolved and the county files bankruptcy.
“Well, it would put financial strain on all cities throughout the state as well as state governments,” said Bell. “You will see a rise in interest rates on money we've already borrowed through the issuance of bonds.”
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Only one ambulance service to be used in Tuscaloosa
Tuscaloosa will now only use one ambulance service.
In a unanimous vote on Tuesday night, the city council decided to make Northstar its only provider.
Rural Metro served the city for one year; it will continue to provide service in Tuscaloosa County. Some 40 Metro employees will be affected but have already been offered jobs within the company.
"It's a great city. We wish we'd be here. We know they are going to rebound. We wish we were here to see them do that. The City spoke tonight and the council spoke. So we'll make sure that we work with Northstar and we have a seamless transition," said Eric Messer with Rural Metro.
Northstar says it will be able to offer more services as a single provider to the city.
"I think it's probably going to be easier and more efficient to do it as single provider than it was to do it in a dual role," said Northstar employee Edgar Calloway.
Northstar plans on adding staff and possibly one or two stations to provide better service to Tuscaloosa.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
In a unanimous vote on Tuesday night, the city council decided to make Northstar its only provider.
Rural Metro served the city for one year; it will continue to provide service in Tuscaloosa County. Some 40 Metro employees will be affected but have already been offered jobs within the company.
"It's a great city. We wish we'd be here. We know they are going to rebound. We wish we were here to see them do that. The City spoke tonight and the council spoke. So we'll make sure that we work with Northstar and we have a seamless transition," said Eric Messer with Rural Metro.
Northstar says it will be able to offer more services as a single provider to the city.
"I think it's probably going to be easier and more efficient to do it as single provider than it was to do it in a dual role," said Northstar employee Edgar Calloway.
Northstar plans on adding staff and possibly one or two stations to provide better service to Tuscaloosa.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
New home needed for Tuscaloosa EMA
Tuscaloosa is looking for a new home for the county EMA.
The old emergency management office on 35th Street was destroyed during the April 27th tornado.
On Tuesday, crews began demolishing what's left of the building.
The city is now doing site surveys on possible locations.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The old emergency management office on 35th Street was destroyed during the April 27th tornado.
On Tuesday, crews began demolishing what's left of the building.
The city is now doing site surveys on possible locations.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Missing teen's body found after search
The body of a missing Walker County teen has been discovered after an overnight search.
15-year-old Darrin Sawyer of Parrish disappeared from a dirt track off Highway 69 in Tuscaloosa County on Sunday afternoon. He was last seen riding a 4-wheeler into the woods.
More than a day later, the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff's Office conducted a search on the ground and in the air.
Around 9:00 a.m. during a second search of the area, Sawyer’s body was found at the bottom of a steep trail and a T-intersection approximately 75 feet into a heavily wooded area.
"Initial indications lead us to believe this was an accident. I was told he was not an experienced rider," said Tuscaloosa County Sheriff Ted Sexton.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
15-year-old Darrin Sawyer of Parrish disappeared from a dirt track off Highway 69 in Tuscaloosa County on Sunday afternoon. He was last seen riding a 4-wheeler into the woods.
More than a day later, the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff's Office conducted a search on the ground and in the air.
Around 9:00 a.m. during a second search of the area, Sawyer’s body was found at the bottom of a steep trail and a T-intersection approximately 75 feet into a heavily wooded area.
"Initial indications lead us to believe this was an accident. I was told he was not an experienced rider," said Tuscaloosa County Sheriff Ted Sexton.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Alabama celebrates the Fourth of July
Alabamians made sure there were plenty of ways to celebrate this year for Independence Day.
Thunder on the Mountain, the state's largest fireworks display, was almost interrupted by showers on Monday night. The rain ended just before the fireworks show started, but that did not stop folks from lining the streets below Vulcan to get a good view.
Folks in Gadsden dealt with a similar situation; the rain there also ended just in time for a big fireworks show in east Alabama over the Coosa River.
The rain derailed plans for a fireworks show in Oxford. Because of the stormy weather, the display has been rescheduled for Tuesday night. It takes place at Oxford Lake, beginning at 9:00 p.m.
A huge 4th of July celebration was held at American Village in Montevallo. Families got to march with George Washington's army and listen to Thomas Jefferson talk about the Declaration of Independence. The activities were part of the village's effort to bring history to life and make it more accessible.
The fourth was the biggest day of the year for American Village, with an estimated 6,000 to 8,000 visitors.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thunder on the Mountain, the state's largest fireworks display, was almost interrupted by showers on Monday night. The rain ended just before the fireworks show started, but that did not stop folks from lining the streets below Vulcan to get a good view.
Folks in Gadsden dealt with a similar situation; the rain there also ended just in time for a big fireworks show in east Alabama over the Coosa River.
The rain derailed plans for a fireworks show in Oxford. Because of the stormy weather, the display has been rescheduled for Tuesday night. It takes place at Oxford Lake, beginning at 9:00 p.m.
A huge 4th of July celebration was held at American Village in Montevallo. Families got to march with George Washington's army and listen to Thomas Jefferson talk about the Declaration of Independence. The activities were part of the village's effort to bring history to life and make it more accessible.
The fourth was the biggest day of the year for American Village, with an estimated 6,000 to 8,000 visitors.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
State troopers finish up Fourth of July blitz
Alabama state troopers wrapped up their holiday traffic blitz overnight.
All available state troopers have been on the highways, targeting aggressive drivers.
They had also set up extra license and sobriety checkpoints during the holiday weekend.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
All available state troopers have been on the highways, targeting aggressive drivers.
They had also set up extra license and sobriety checkpoints during the holiday weekend.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, July 1, 2011
One man killed in Fultondale accident
The Alabama Department of Public Safety says one man was killed Monday in a single vehicle accident.
It happened around 7:00 p.m. on Carson Road in Fultondale.
35-year-old Jared Dean Joy was killed while traveling in a 1979 Chevrolet C20.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
It happened around 7:00 p.m. on Carson Road in Fultondale.
35-year-old Jared Dean Joy was killed while traveling in a 1979 Chevrolet C20.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Man killed in one car accident in Harpersville
The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office says a man has died after being involved in a single car accident in Harpersville.
The accident happened around 6:30 a.m. on Friday. Shelby County 911 received a report of a vehicle leaving the road and overturning. Deputies responded to the call along with Harpersville police and rescue personnel.
32-year-old Jimmy Bernard Marbury of Sylacauga was killed in the accident. He was the only person in the vehicle.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Meth lab discovered in Graysville
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department says they have discovered a meth lab on Main Street in Graysville.
According to Randy Christian with the Sheriff’s office, a tipster informed deputies of the possibility that a meth lab existed on Man Street and that 54-year-old Ricky McCoy, a new resident at the location, was believed to have outstanding warrants in Walker County.
An investigation into the matter revealed McCoy did have outstanding warrants in Walker County and he had been recently arrested for manufacturing meth.
McCoy was arrested at a residence in the 700 block of Main Street. Deputies found narcotics and drug paraphernalia in the basement and a meth lab in the kitchen.
McCoy now faces charges of Manufacturing a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Sheriff Mike Hale took time to praise the citizen who shared the information leading to the arrest.
“In these lean budgetary times, partnerships between the citizens and my Deputy Sheriffs are essential to keeping our neighborhoods and communities safe,” stated Hale.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
State budget cuts are now being felt by more central Alabama courthouses.
State budget cuts are now being felt by more central Alabama courthouses.
In Calhoun County, Circuit Clerk Ted Hooks says he will have to cut more than half his staff by August 1st.
Shelby County Circuit Clerk Mary Harris says she will have to cut six members of her staff, leaving just 10.
Both clerks say that will mean lines and delays in cases.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
In Calhoun County, Circuit Clerk Ted Hooks says he will have to cut more than half his staff by August 1st.
Shelby County Circuit Clerk Mary Harris says she will have to cut six members of her staff, leaving just 10.
Both clerks say that will mean lines and delays in cases.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuscaloosa residents share ideas at rebuilding meeting
The city of Tuscaloosa is continuing the long process of planning to rebuild the areas affected by the April 27th storms.
On Thursday night, people attended a workshop to give their input on the rebuilding process. About 250 people showed at the Bryant Conference Center for the workshop.
People got in groups and wrote down their ideas, using maps as a guide. Some of their ideas include walking and biking trails, more sidewalks, parks and outdoor recreation.
Another idea was to construct a memorial in honor of the people who were killed during the storms.
"Tuscaloosa Forward" held the workshop. The group was created by the city to organize rebuilding efforts. The goal is to have a master plan for rebuilding the city by August.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Thursday night, people attended a workshop to give their input on the rebuilding process. About 250 people showed at the Bryant Conference Center for the workshop.
People got in groups and wrote down their ideas, using maps as a guide. Some of their ideas include walking and biking trails, more sidewalks, parks and outdoor recreation.
Another idea was to construct a memorial in honor of the people who were killed during the storms.
"Tuscaloosa Forward" held the workshop. The group was created by the city to organize rebuilding efforts. The goal is to have a master plan for rebuilding the city by August.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Beach and boat ramp reopen at Lake Guntersville State Park
A big step has been taken on the road to recovery for Lake Guntersville State Park.
The beach and boat ramp will re-open today.
The park was heavily damaged by the April 27th tornadoes.
It has taken more than 2 months to clear the downed trees and debris.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The beach and boat ramp will re-open today.
The park was heavily damaged by the April 27th tornadoes.
It has taken more than 2 months to clear the downed trees and debris.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
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