With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the untimely and senseless passing of Curtis Jerome Pruitt, age 65, of Birmingham, Alabama, whose life was cut short in a tragic act of gun violence on the afternoon of Sunday, July 20, 2025. Curtis was fatally shot while seated in his vehicle in North Birmingham, and despite emergency efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at UAB Hospital. His loss has left a painful void in the lives of his family, friends, and the broader Birmingham community.
Curtis was known as a quiet, humble man with a warm smile and a kind heart. A lifelong Birmingham resident, he was a steady and familiar presence to many in the area. Whether it was a friendly wave from his SUV, a conversation at the local corner store, or his dedication to his family, Curtis had a way of making people feel seen and respected. His death has not only shaken his loved ones but has also left an entire neighborhood mourning the loss of a man who simply didn’t deserve such a tragic end.
The Incident
According to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, Curtis was found unresponsive inside his gray SUV in the 10 block of 9th Avenue West, near a small apartment complex. The Birmingham Police Department’s North Precinct initially responded to reports of a shooting in the 900 block of Center Street North around 2:30 p.m. Upon locating the vehicle a short distance away, officers discovered that Curtis had sustained gunshot wounds.
Emergency medical teams from Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service attempted life-saving measures on the scene and then rushed him to UAB Hospital. Despite their efforts, Curtis was sadly pronounced deceased.
Investigators believe the shooter approached Curtis’s vehicle on foot and opened fire before fleeing. Officer Truman Fitzgerald of the Birmingham Police Department described the shooting as a bold, broad daylight attack and emphasized the urgent need for community assistance in identifying the suspect.
Ongoing Investigation
At this time, authorities have not released any suspect descriptions, and the motive for the shooting remains unknown. The Birmingham Police Department’s Real Time Crime Center is actively reviewing surveillance footage and canvassing the area for witnesses who might have seen the events unfold or captured video evidence of the shooter’s movements.
“This happened in broad daylight on a Sunday,” Officer Fitzgerald stated. “We’re urging the public—if you saw anything—to please contact Crime Stoppers. Even the smallest detail might make a difference.”
Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Birmingham Police Department at 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. Anonymous tips are also welcome and could be crucial in solving the case.
A Life Remembered
Curtis Jerome Pruitt was not just a victim—he was a man with a life, a story, and people who loved him deeply. Known for his gentle nature and his quiet resilience, Curtis was someone who brought comfort and familiarity to those around him. He loved his family dearly, cherished his community, and lived with integrity and grace.
To those who knew him best, Curtis will be remembered for his calm demeanor, his loyalty, and his strength. His passing is not just a statistic—it is a devastating reminder of the fragility of life and the violence that continues to plague our communities.
A Community in Mourning
Curtis’s death marks Birmingham’s 43rd homicide of the year and contributes to a troubling trend in Jefferson County, which has now recorded 67 homicides in total. Each of these numbers represents a life lost and a family grieving, and Curtis’s case stands out for the brazenness of the attack and the heartbreak it has caused.
As police continue their investigation, community members are urged to come forward and help ensure that justice is served. This tragedy has left many reeling, and there is a collective call for accountability and peace.
Final Thoughts
The loss of Curtis Jerome Pruitt is a tragedy that echoes beyond crime statistics—it is a deeply personal, emotional blow to those who knew and loved him. As the Birmingham Police Department continues their investigation, the hope remains that someone will speak up and help bring closure to his grieving family.
We ask that you keep Curtis’s loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this painful time. May his memory be a blessing, and may his death serve as a rallying cry for change, justice, and healing in our communities.
Rest in peace, Curtis. You were loved, and you will not be forgotten.
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