BIRMINGHAM, AL — A North Birmingham neighborhood is reeling after a man, affectionately known in the community by the nickname “Pooh Bear” and on Facebook as “Rarè Bear,” was shot and killed Tuesday afternoon during a heartbreaking altercation involving his own son.
The incident unfolded just before 3 p.m. on July 22, 2025, in the Hooper City neighborhood. According to Birmingham Police, what began as a domestic dispute inside a home escalated quickly, spilling out onto the street and ending in gunfire near the Hooper City Convenience Store on Fourth Street West.
When officers arrived at the scene, they found the victim lying unresponsive. Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures, but he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. His identity, though not yet officially released by authorities, has been widely recognized on social media as “Pooh Bear,” a man known in his community for his presence and personality, often seen engaging with friends and family through his Facebook profile, where he went by “Rarè Bear.”
The man’s son, whose name has also not yet been publicly released, was located and taken into custody later that day on the city’s east side. He is currently being questioned by investigators. As of now, no charges have been filed, and the investigation remains active.
Authorities have not disclosed what led to the fatal dispute, and the exact cause of the argument remains under investigation. Police say they are continuing to gather witness statements and review available evidence, including any surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses.
The tragic event has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving residents heartbroken and stunned by the violence that erupted between father and son. Several neighbors described Pooh Bear as a familiar face in the area — someone they often saw around town and who always had a smile or a joke to share.
“He was a good man. No one is perfect, but he didn’t deserve to go out like that,” said a longtime resident who knew the victim. “To think his own child was involved… that just breaks your heart.”
Friends and family have begun sharing condolences and memories on social media, mourning the loss of a man who, despite his nickname, carried a larger-than-life presence in the lives of those who knew him.
The Birmingham Police Department is urging anyone with additional information related to the case to come forward. They can contact the department’s Homicide Division directly or leave anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
As the investigation continues, one family is now shattered, a community is in mourning, and another name is added to the growing list of lives lost to domestic violence and gun-related tragedies.
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