Two dead after gunman opens fire at a church potluck dinner

By: Thomas I. Likness
Eagle News Service

(Eagle News) — What was supposed to have been a time of socializing during a potluck dinner at an Alabama church turned to tragedy when a gunman entered the building an opened fire.

Two people died and a third is in hospital with unknown injuries.

The shooting happened at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Vestavia Hills, a suburb of Birmingham, Alabama.

The suspect is in custody, Capt. Shane Ware, of the Vestavia Hills Police Department, said Thursday.

He said there is no danger to the community.

He did not identify the suspect or any of the victims.

“The Vestavia Hills Police Department would like to express our prayers to the families of the victims of this tragic event, and for everyone in our community that is affected by this tragedy,” said Ware.

Police have not determined a motive.

According to the church website, the gathering was billed as a boomers potluck.

“There will be no program, simply eat and have time for fellowship,” the website read.

Several law enforcement agencies are involved in the investigation.

More details are expected Friday morning.
(Eagle News Service)